(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 the Silver Star to Major John Oren Hanford, 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 Hanford distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions while serving as Pilot of an F-100 Super Sabre fighter airplane of the 614th Tactical Fighter Squadron,13th Tactical Fighter Wing, SEVENTH Air Force, in action against the enemy in 1968. Major Hanford flew a mission against an enemy artillery position which had been shelling the U.S. Marine outpost at Khe Sanh. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Major Hanford, 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.