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 Jack Edward Shepard (AFSN: AO-2222243), United States Air Force, for gallantry in action against an armed enemy of the United Nations as a Pilot of an F-51 Mustang Fighter-Bomber of the 67th Fighter-Bomber Squadron, 18th Fighter-Bomber Group, FIFTH Air Force, on 21 April 1952. While flying as element leader in a flight of four F-51 type aircraft escorting a rescue helicopter near Sonchon, Korea to friendly territory, Lieutenant Shepard’s right external tank was shot off as he attacked an enemy gun position. Disregarding the damage to his aircraft, he pressed his attack at minimum altitude, successfully dive-bombing the enemy position with his remaining external tank. Lieutenant Shepard continued his minimum altitude attacks on enemy positions making several mock attacks even after expending his ammunition in order to protect the helicopter on its return flight. By his fearless devotion to duty, complete disregard for his own personal safety, and gallantry in action, Lieutenant Shepard reflected great credit upon himself, the FAR EAST Air Forces, and the United States Air Force.