The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Ensign Fred Forrest Ackerman (NSN: 0-351948), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while participating in aerial flight while serving with Bombing-Fighting Squadron EIGHTY (VBF-80), in action against enemy air power in the Tokyo area on 16 February 1945. Ensign Ackerman was wingman in a division of planes in a fighter sweep and in the face of enemy numerical superiority, he personally destroyed four and probably destroyed one enemy aircraft in the air. All of these aircraft were threatening his division leader’s safety and it was only through his skillful airmanship and personal courage that he was able to bring about their timely destruction. His determination, skill and integrity were at all times inspiring and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.