The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain John Freeman Caine (AFSN: 0-11231816), United States Air Force, for gallantry in action in connection with military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force as an Advisor-Pilot of a T-28 fighter bomber aircraft of the 1st Air Commando Squadron over the Republic of Vietnam on 24 November 1963. On that date, Captain Caine provided airpower against advancing Viet Cong guerillas, who were intent on capturing the crew of a downed helicopter. Despite the intensive ground fire and though the aircraft received eight direct hits from Viet Cong guns, Captain Caine continuously flew the aircraft at extremely low level and remained in the area until he was satisfied that the safety of the downed crew was assured. The extraordinary gallantry and selfless devotion to duty displayed by Captain Caine have reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.