The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain [then First Lieutenant] George J. Mattes (AFSN: AO-742179), United States Air Force, for gallantry in action against an enemy on 30 August 1950 while flying as pilot of an unarmed T-6 Mosquito Reconnaissance aircraft of the FAR EAST Air Forces, in action over enemy territory in the vicinity of Chukchon-ni, Korea. Captain Mattes, while on a visual reconnaissance flight deep in enemy territory, observed 22 camouflaged enemy vehicles, two of which were tanks, situated in patches of foliage in a dry river bed, and numerous supplies hidden in an orchard. Although he was being fired upon by an enemy 20 millimeter anti-aircraft battery and 50 caliber machine guns, Captain Mattes, with complete disregard for his own safety, personally directed three friendly fighter strikes against these targets which resulted in the destruction of the anti-aircraft battery. By his professional skill, aggressiveness, courage under fire, and devotion to duty, Captain Mattes upheld the highest traditions of the military service, thus reflecting great credit upon himself, the United Nations’ Forces, and the United States Air Force.