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 Paul C. Vanderhoek, United States Air Force, for gallantry in action against an armed enemy of the United Nations as a Pilot of an RF-86 Sabrejet Reconnaissance aircraft of the 15th Tactical Reconnaissance Squadron, FIFTH Air Force, on 15 July 1952. On that date, Major Vanderhoek volunteered to fly a photographic reconnaissance mission in an RF-86 type aircraft far behind enemy lines to secure vital data on certain classified targets. Leading an escort of twenty-four F-86 aircraft, Major Vanderhoek climbed to 40,000 feet and accomplished an instrument weather penetration at that altitude en route to the target. Commencing his photographic runs, Major Vanderhoek observed twenty MiG-15 aircraft orbiting into attacking position as his escort broke off to engage them. Although alone and in an unarmed aircraft, Major Vanderhoek completely disregarded the obvious risk and continued his runs, obtaining one hundred percent photographic coverage of his targets. Major Vanderhoek then rejoined his escort, and despite numerous enemy jets in the area, led the flight into the protective cover of the overcast, navigated through the adverse weather back to the base, and accomplished a safe instrument let-down. By conspicuous gallantry and unfaltering leadership he displayed in skillfully executing this mission, Major Vanderhoek reflected the highest credit upon himself, the FAR EAST Air Forces, and the United States Air Force.