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 Major Edward Clayton Straub, United States Air Force, for gallantry in connection with military operations against an opposing armed force as Navigator and Starlight Scope Operator over hostile territory on 30 November 1968. On that date, while flying on a mission of unarmed night reconnaissance, flare support and forward air control, Major Straub spent more than five hours over some of the most heavily defended terrain in Southeast Asia directing strikes against hostile truck parks, storage areas, truck convoys and interdiction points. During this period the aircraft was subjected to more than four hundred rounds of anti-aircraft fire. With complete disregard for his own safety, Major Straub remained over the target directing the fighter aircraft and was instrumental in inflicting heavy damage to the hostile road network and vehicles. By his gallantry and devotion to duty, Major Straub has reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.