The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain James L. Anderst (MCSN: 0-82185), United States Marine Corps, for gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Bombardier/Navigator of an A-6A Intruder Aircraft with Marine All Weather Attack Squadron TWO HUNDRED FORTY-TWO (VMA(AW)-242), in connection with combat operations against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on 25 October 1967. As a multi-plane, multi-squadron attack was pre-planned and subsequently aborted, Captain Anderst made extensive last minute changes in navigation and attack procedures. When the aircraft reached the pre-planned let-down point, Captain Anderst directed the pilot to descend into the narrow and treacherous mountain passes to avoid enemy radar contact. As the plane reached the Red River Delta, no longer masked by mountains, they were picked up on enemy radar and subjected to intense enemy anti-aircraft fire. Observing four surface-to-air missiles fired at two mile intervals, the pilot began diving and weaving the aircraft within 300 feet of the ground. As tracers engulfed the aircraft, he maintained the target on radar and provided the pilot with attack data. Evading the third and fourth missiles and despite intense anti-aircraft fire, Captain Anderst directed the pilot to climb into the barrage fire to gain altitude over the target. As the aircraft shuddered from detonating enemy fire, Captain Anderst made last minute corrections and delivered his bombs on target. Receiving a warning of another missile being launched and realizing that it was coming up behind them, Captain Anderst directed the pilot to turn back into the devastating enemy fire where they once again successfully evaded the missile. By his bold initiative, gallant fighting spirit and loyal devotion to duty, Captain Anderst reflected great credit upon himself and the Marine Corps and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.