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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 pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to First Lieutenant Michael Joseph Blassie, United States Air Force, for gallantry in action while engaged in military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force while serving with the 8th Special Operations Squadron, 377th Air Base Wing, SEVENTH Air Force, in action at An Loc, Republic of Vietnam, on 11 May 1972. On that date, First Lieutenant Blassie flew in support of allied forces that were defending the town of An Loc and in gave danger of being overrun by a large hostile force supported by a multitude of heavy weaponry. Flying through intense antiaircraft fire and with complete disregard for his own safety, First Lieutenant Blassie attacked gun sites in extremely close proximity of the friendly positions and, despite taking numerous direct hits from the antiaircraft fire, delivered his ordnance precisely on target. The dedication of First Lieutenant Blassie was instrumental in helping the friendly forces to maintain their positions and successfully defend the town. By his gallantry and devotion to duty in the dedication of his service to his country, First Lieutenant Blassie has reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Air Force.

Awards Received

  • Distinguished Flying Cross

    Service:

    United States Air Force

    Rank:

    First Lieutenant

    Batallion:

    8th Special Operations Squadron

    Regiment:

    377th Air Base Wing

    Division:

    7th Air Force

    Action Date:

    April 23, 1972

    The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 2, 1926, takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross (Posthumously) to First Lieutenant Michael Joseph Blassie, United States Air Force, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as an A-37 pilot of the 8th Special Operations Squadron, 377th Air Base Wing, SEVENTH Air Force, in action against the enemy in Southeast Asia on 23 April 1972. On that date, First Lieutenant Blassie flew in support of an allied unit under attack near Dau Tieng, Republic of Vietnam. Despite the poor weather, antiaircraft fire, and very close proximity of friendly forces to the hostile positions, First Lieutenant Blassie made repeated passes delivering his ordnance precisely on target. As a result of these actions, a superior hostile force was dispersed, thus allowing the allied force to secure their position. The professional competence, aerial skill and devotion to duty displayed by First Lieutenant Blassie reflect great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Air Force.