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 Dennis Lee Butler, 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 Butler distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions while serving with the 20th Tactical Reconnaissance Squadron, 20th Special Operations Wing, SEVENTH Air Force in action against the enemy near Hanoi, North Vietnam, on 31 July 1967. Major Butler led a flight of two unarmed RF-101 Voodoo reconnaissance aircraft and four F-4C Phantom fighter escort aircraft on a thirty mile photographic mission of the Northeast Railroad. While under attack by surface-to-air missiles and numerous accurate and intense 85-millimeter flank barrages which completely surrounded his aircraft, Major Butler obtained 100 percent photographic coverage of all assigned targets. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Major Butler, 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.