The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Major Robert Vernon Spencer (AFSN: 13230A), United States Air Force, for gallantry in action on 4 February 1951 as a Pilot of an unarmed C-47 Transport Aircraft of the 3d Bombardment Group (Light), FIFTH Air Force, in action on a low level experimental night combat mission in Korea. The object of this mission, the first of its type to be flown in this action, was to strew tacks on a designated section of road to disrupt or halt all enemy vehicular traffic. The experiment was carried out on a stretch of highway which was located in such a manner as to become a natural barrier if the road were blocked. Although a hail of small arms fire was met on the first attack, Major Spencer flew his aircraft at an altitude of from ten to twenty feet down the twisting highway. During the first attack Major Spencer encountered three enemy tanks which immediately directed their fire at his airplane. Knowing that B-26 attack bombers were in the area, Major Spencer notified them that he had found enemy tanks and that he would attempt to draw their fire to enable the B-26 crews to locate them. Again Major Spencer flew his unarmed aircraft down the road which twisted through dark valleys, and as anticipated, the tanks opened fire. Disregarding the dangers involved, Major Spencer flew over the tanks a third time and launched an illuminating flare which allowed the attack bomber to destroy the tanks. The courage, determination and devotion to duty displayed by Major Spencer 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.