(Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: 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 a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star to Major Gerald Thomas Dwyer, United States Army, for gallantry in action while engaged in military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam. Major Dwyer distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions while serving as a Forward Air Controller and Pilot of an O-2A aircraft of the 23d Tactical Air Support Squadron, 504th Tactical Air Support Group, SEVENTH Air Force, Nakhon Royal Thai Air Force Base, Thailand, in action against the enemy in 1968. Major Dwyer’s aircraft was shot down by enemy fire and he bailed out, landing in a ravine from which there was no escape. Soon after touching down, six enemy soldiers attempted to capture him but he shot and killed three of them. His bold frontal assault terrified the other three and they ran off in fear. Major Dwyer was subsequently rescued by American Search and Rescue aircraft. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Major Dwyer, 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.