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 (Field Artillery) Alan Francis Jones, United States Army, for gallantry in action in connection with in military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force while serving with the 129th Assault Helicopter Company, 1st Aviation Brigade. Major Jones distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions while serving as Aircraft Commander of the Command and Control ship covering the 22d Army of the Republic of Vietnam division. Approximately one kilometer east of Phu My, an observation helicopter was shot down in a rice paddy. A utility helicopter covering the aircraft immediately went in to rescue the crew, but was also shot down in the immediate vicinity. Major Jones unhesitatingly and with complete disregard for his personal safety immediately attempted a rescue of the two crews. The first attempt was aborted due to the tremendous volume of enemy fire. Remaining determined in the face of such adversity, Major Jones made a second rescue attempt from a different direction. Again an intense volume of fire was received, but Major Jones, realizing the enemy forces were closing with the downed aviators rapidly and there would not be time for another approach, continued through the fire and landed his aircraft. Despite the volume of fire and the hits received, Major Jones remained steadfast until all crew members were boarded. He then completed a successful take off to safety under enemy fire. Through his determination, professionalism, and heroism, Major Jones was directly responsible for saving the lives or capture of six U.S. Army aviators. Major Jones actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.