The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 8, 1918 (amended by act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Sergeant Paul C. Perry, United States Air Force, for gallantry in connection with military operations against an opposing armed force in Southeast Asia on 2 March 1972. On that date, Sergeant Perry, Pararescue Specialist on an HH-53C helicopter, repeatedly volunteered to fly into an extremely hostile area in the rescue of a downed airman. Sergeant Perry, fully exposed at his left forward position, continuously suppressed hostile fire and aided the pilot in maneuvering the aircraft to avoid the more dangerous areas by locating the hostile gun positions. By his gallantry and devotion to duty, Sergeant Perry has reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.