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 Jay H. Williams (AFSN: 15776A), United States Air Force, for gallantry in connection with military operations against an opposing armed force while serving as a Forward Air Controller of the FAR EAST Air Forces, in action in Korea. First Lieutenant Williams performed acts of the utmost courage, valor and gallantry in action while participating in sustained operations in support of United Nations activities in Korea. On 31 July 1950, Lieutenant Williams piloted a slow unarmed trainer plane over rugged terrain and through adverse weather in direct support of friendly ground troops by directing the fire of fighter planes against the hostile forces. Enemy ground troops were observed engaging United Nations forces on a ridge shrouded by clouds. Despite intense and accurate ground fire Lieutenant Williams made continued low passes over the enemy troops in guiding the fighter planes in on the enemy. While engaged in the fighter direction his plane was struck by ground fire and as a result the plane was covered with oil. In spite of the restricted visibility caused by oil on his canopy he continued his hazardous low passes until forced to return to his base because of lack of visibility. This action resulted in the destruction of a complete battalion of the enemy, which was confirmed by ground forces present in the area and is part of official records. On this same day, while identifying front lines for fighter strikes, low passes were again necessary due to very low cloud formations. During one low pass through intense ground fire his aircraft was hit, which resulted in engine failure. Clearing ridges and hills by only a few feet, Lieutenant Williams skillfully glided the aircraft from deep in enemy territory to a crash landing within a mile of the front lines, from where he and his observer successfully evaded the enemy. The gallantry and courageous disregard for personal safety displayed by Lieutenant Williams on both missions are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.