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 Captain Thomas Lester Shields (AFSN: AO-837209), United States Air Force, for gallantry in action against an enemy on 23 October 1951 as Aircraft Commander of a B-29A Superfortress Bomber of the 370th Bombardment Squadron, 307th Bombardment Group (Medium), FIFTH Air Force. Captain Shields was leading the third flight of aircraft over the important enemy airfield at Namsi. Twenty miles from the target, after encountering anti-aircraft fire, the formation of B-29s escorted by 50 friendly fighters was attacked by approximately 150 enemy fighters. The ensuing battle was one of the most savage on record during the entire Korean Campaign. Captain Shields’ plane was raked by enemy fighter fire. Whole sections of the wings covering the gas tanks were blown away. The number three engine was in flames. The aircraft rolled violently to the right, but through great effort Captain Shields recovered. Refusing the opportunity of an immediate bailout, he flew the aircraft to the coast so as to make the rescue of his crew more probable. Captain Shields was last seen at the controls as his crew bailed out. The superlative skill, exceptional courage, and devotion to duty displayed by Captain Shields 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.