The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant Roger Alan Erickson (MCSN: 0-92924), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Marine Composite Reconnaissance Squadron ONE, Marine Aircraft Group 11 (MAG-11), FIRST Marine Aircraft Wing, in connection with operations against the enemy. On the morning of 17 September 1968, First Lieutenant Erickson launched as Aircraft Commander aboard a RF-4B photo reconnaissance aircraft assigned to photograph a suspected highly complex radar and communications installation on the coast of the Demilitarized Zone. Arriving over the designated area, he ignored the threat of hostile fire as he maneuvered his aircraft at an altitude of 200 feet into the required flight pattern and had partially completed his first run when he was informed that a slower speed was essential to accurately photograph the vital target. Although realizing that the slower speed would further endanger his aircraft, First Lieutenant Erickson resolutely initiated the new flight pattern and had completed two passes over the target area when enemy ground fire seriously damaged his aircraft. Determined to save the valuable photographs and the life of his crewman, he refused to eject and skillfully maneuvered his crippled aircraft toward the DaNang Air Base. When informed by an escorting aircraft that his right main landing gear had failed to lower, First Lieutenant Erickson displayed exceptional composure and professional ability as he maneuvered to successfully engage the emergency arresting equipment on the runway. His resolute determination and superb aeronautical ability inspired all who served with him and were instrumental in obtaining vital intelligence information that enabled the accurate planning of numerous attack missions against the hostile installation. By his courage, superior airmanship and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of great personal danger, First Lieutenant Erickson upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service.