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 Jay Thomas Edwards, United States Air Force, for gallantry in connection with military operations against an opposing armed force as an F-100 Pilot of the 510th Tactical Fighter Squadron, 3d Tactical Fighter Wing, SEVENTH Air Force, Bien Hoa Air Base, Vietnam, in action near Phu Vinh, Republic of Vietnam, on 5 February 1968. On that date, Major Edwards provided close air support to friendly forces who were in heavy contact with a hostile force of battalion strength. Despite many obstacles, Major Edwards made numerous low level passes exposing himself repeatedly to intense hostile automatic weapons fire which resulted in extensive battle damage to his aircraft. Disregarding the obvious hazard of continuing the strike with a damaged aircraft, Major Edwards, valuing the need of the friendly troops above his own safety, elected to continue the mission. Through his exceptional aerial skill and dedication, the hostile forces were repulsed and numerous friendly lives were saved. By his gallantry and devotion to duty, Major Edwards has reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.