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 Airman First Class David C. Matthews, United States Air Force, for gallantry in action while engaged in military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force as a C-130B Loadmaster at Tonle Cham, Republic of Vietnam on 15 December 1968. On that date, Airman Matthews was engaged in an emergency re-supply mission to air-land vitally needed ammunition to friendly forces at Tonle Cham, when a mortar attack occurred. Disregarding his personal safety, Airman Matthews exposed himself over an extended period of time to heavy hostile fire to insure the ammunition was unloaded and the aircraft was prepared for take off. His remarkable display of personal valor insured mission completion and survival of his aircraft and crew. By his gallantry and devotion to duty, Airman Matthews reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.