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 Fred Shannon (AFSN: 0-3100995), United States Air Force, for gallantry in connection with military operations against an opposing armed force while serving as an F-105 Electronics Warfare Officer of the 13th Tactical Fighter Squadron, 388th Tactical Fighter Wing, Korat Royal Thai Air Base, Thailand, in action near Hanoi, North Vietnam, on 12 May 1967. On that date, while performing duties as an Electronic Warfare Officer in a specially equipped F-105F Thunderchief, Captain Shannon was instrumental in leading an “Iron Hand” flight in support of a large strike force which was under constant, imminent threat by hostile radar-controlled anti-aircraft and surface-to-air missile fire. Persevering in the face of danger and death, he relentlessly and effectively aided in neutralizing the hostile forces, and in the destruction of two hostile SA-2 sites. By his gallantry and devotion to duty, Captain Shannon has reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.




