The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to First Lieutenant Donald J. Ferns (AFSN: AO-1909285), United States Air Force, for gallantry in action as Pilot of a B-26 Invader Attack Bomber of the 3d Bombardment Group (Light), FIFTH Air Force, in action during a daylight armed reconnaissance mission on 6 July 1950. On that date, Lieutenant Ferns attacked an enemy tank and Infantry concentration of approximately division strength in the vicinity of Pyongtack, Korea. On the approach to the heavily defended target, his aircraft was hit by intense anti-aircraft fire and the right engine was in flames. Although in position to break off the approach, Lieutenant Ferns elected to press the attack. He continued the attack until all his ammunition was expended and the target area was in complete disorder and ruin. Only then did he look to his own safety and that of his crew. With one engine feathered, he climbed to an altitude of 800 feet and bailed out his crew; at 600 feet, he parachuted to safety. All landed in enemy territory, but through Lieutenant Fern’s leadership successfully evaded enemy forces and returned to United Nations lines. Lieutenant Fern’s gallant performance and outstanding devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the service and reflected great credit upon himself, the FAR EAST Air Forces, and the United States Air Force.