The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Major Reed Lewis Stone, United States Air Force, for gallantry in action while engaged in military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam. Major Stone distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions while serving as Pilot of a C-123 Aircraft of the 311th Special Operations Squadron, 315th Air Commando Wing, SEVENTH Air Force, Da Nang Air Base, Republic of Vietnam, in action against the enemy in 1969. When word was received that the Tien Phuoc civilian defense camp near Da Nang Airbase was under attach in and danger of being overrun, Major Stone’s squadron suspended all regular, scheduled missions and started airlifting supplies to the besieged camp. En route, he lost sight of the camp on the first pass, but located it on the second pass. About half-a-mile from the end of the runway, an enemy .50 caliber gun opened up on the aircraft from across the river. His aircraft took three hits, one round striking one of the engines, causing it to come apart with turbine blades disintegrating and penetrating the airplane. Another round cut a fuel line and fuel began leaking into the damaged engine. A fire began but the crew was unable to extinguish it because the leaking fuel line kept feeding the blaze. Nevertheless, Major Stone was able to land his plane and unload the cargo. He then made the decision to takeoff with the burning engine, believing that the wing would blow the fire out. Later he learned that enemy recoilless rifle fire followed the aircraft as it taxied down the runway, leaving multiple bullet holes. Gaining altitude, the wind extinguished the engine fire and Major Stone was able to safely return his aircraft to Da Nang without loss of life. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Major Stone, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.