The President of the United States of America, authorized by Executive Order 11046, 24 August 1962, takes pleasure in presenting the Airman’s Medal to Captain Barry Wilton Barksdale, United States Air Force, for heroism not involving actual conflict with an enemy of the United States, while serving with the 75th Tactical Fighter Squadron, 23d Tactical Fighter Wing, at England Air Force Base, in August 1975. While serving as the Command Post duty controller, Captain Barksdale and another man were held hostage by an armed intruder. Without regard for his own safety, Captain Barksdale convinced the intruder to release the other hostage and ultimately surrender his weapon. Despite repeated threats against his life, Captain Barksdale’s ability to remain calm and rational in this explosive situation was instrumental in averting a major catastrophe that involved the potential loss of several lives including his own. The exemplary courage and heroism displayed by Brigadier General Barksdale reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.