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 Ralph Hilton Bowersox, United States Air Force. Major Bowersox distinguished himself by gallantry in connection with military operations against an opposing armed force over North Vietnam on 4 December 1966. On that date, Major Bowersox led sixteen F-105 Thunderchiefs against a heavily defended railroad classification yard deep in hostile territory. He displayed extraordinary courage, determination and professional competence to deliver all bombs on target in spite of intense antiaircraft fire, numerous surface-to-air missiles and hostile aircraft encounters, damage to his own aircraft, and rapidly deteriorating weather. By his gallantry and devotion to duty, Major Bowersox has reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.