The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Airman Second Class David J. Kroll (AFSN: AF-16321865), United States Air Force, for gallantry in action against an enemy of the United Nations as a Medical Technician on an H-5 Rescue Helicopter of Detachment ONE, 3d Air Rescue Squadron, FIFTH Air Force, on 27 March 1952. Accompanying a helicopter, Airman Kroll flew into North Korea to assist in the rescue of a pilot captured by enemy troops. Upon sighting the downed pilot and as the helicopter hovered over the area, Airman Kroll fired a carbine over the heads of the enemy, effecting the pilot’s escape. In spite of enemy fire, Airman Kroll unfastened his safety belt, leaned far out of the cockpit and extended his hand to the downed pilot. The pilot grasped the litter bar with one hand and Airman Kroll’s hand with the other, and as the helicopter gained altitude, Airman Kroll hoisted him into the cockpit. Through his complete disregard of personal safety, Airman Kroll’s actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service, and reflected great credit upon himself, the FAR EAST Air Forces, and the United States Air Force.