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 Richard Wells Owen, United States Air Force, for gallantry in connection with military operations against an opposing armed force at a classified location in Southeast Asia on 12 June 1971. On that date, Major Owen led a formation of two aircraft on an emergency re-supply container deliver system airdrop mission to besieged friendly forces which were completely surrounded by an estimated division-size enemy force. During the approach to the drop zone, Major Owen’s aircraft received numerous hits which resulted in fuel loss from the left and right wings, complete loss of all radio communications, and a partial power loss on two engines. Despite this hazardous emergency situation, Major Owens perfectly performed an emergency recovery, saved his valuable aircraft and crew, and accomplished his mission with unqualified success. By his gallantry and devotion to duty, Major Owen has reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.