The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant Jacob Kratt, Jr. (AFSN: AO-2033374), United States Air Force, for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving as Pilot of an F-84 Thunderjet Fighter-Bomber in the 523d Fighter Escort Squadron, 27th Fighter Escort Group, FAR EAST Air Forces, in action in Korea on 23 January 1951. As element leader of a flight of F-84E aircraft flying top cover for twenty-three F-84Es attacking the airfield at Sinuiju, Korea, Lieutenant Kratt observed eight enemy MiG-15 jet fighters attacking a formation of friendly F-84s engaged in making ground firing passes at low altitudes. Although realizing the speed advantage of the enemy aircraft, Lieutenant Kratt without hesitation and with complete disregard for his personal safety, led his two-ship element against the two lead aircraft of the enemy formation which were closing in on the friendly F-84s from astern. Even though Lieutenant Kratt had exposed himself to the fire of six enemy jet aircraft he shot down the enemy flight leader. The aggressive, successful attack against superior numerical odds unnerved and disorganized the remaining six enemy pilots, who immediately disengaged and fled across the Yalu River. When Lieutenant Kratt observed other enemy jet fighter crossing the Manchurian border to attack the F-84s making ground attacks, he again led his two ship element into the formation and shot down another enemy fighter. The aggressiveness, determination and unswerving devotion to duty displayed by Lieutenant Kratt 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.