The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant (Air Corps) Fred Joseph Christensen, Jr. (ASN: 0-774920), United States Army Air Forces, for gallantry in action, while piloting a P-47 fighter aircraft of the 62d Fighter Squadron, 56th Fighter Group, EIGHTH Air Force, on a bomber escort mission over Germany, on 20 February 1955. Just after the squadron which he was flying reached the limit of its range, Lieutenant Christensen observed a ME-109 preparing to attack the bombers. He immediately pursued the enemy plane, forcing it to break off the attack and dive for cover. Climbing to rejoin his flight he saw a BO-237 and another member of the flight destroyed it, despite a withering hail of fire from the hostile plane. Critically low on fuel and ammunition, Lieutenant Christensen again headed for home only to spot a JU-88 below him. Though still deep in enemy territory, he dove for the plane and holding his fire until dead astern, scored direct hits on both engines. As the enemy aircraft burst into flames and spun to the ground, Lieutenant Christensen set his course for England. His gallantry, skill and disregard for personal safety in zealously seeking out the enemy and destroying him contributed in a large measure to the safety of the bomber formation.