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 Technical Sergeant David D. Rhody, United States Air Force, for gallantry in connection with military operations against an opposing armed force near Lai Khe, Republic of Vietnam, on 28 February 1969. On that date Sergeant Rhody was lowered from a helicopter into dense jungle to assist in recovery of three seriously wounded personnel. While on the ground fire was directed at one of the hovering helicopters. Sergeant Rhody, with disregard for his own safety, instructed the pilot to leave the area to avoid further damage to the aircraft. By his gallantry and devotion to duty, Sergeant Rhody has reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.