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 pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Major Lawrence Elmer Bustle, Jr. (AFSN: FR-29960), United States Air Force, for gallantry in connection with military operations against an opposing armed force as an F-4D Aircraft Commander near Xom Lang, North Vietnam on 12 September 1968. On that date, Major Bustle was performing duty as a forward air controller over North Vietnam. Despite intense heavy caliber anti-aircraft artillery fire, Major Bustle found a target for two other fighter-bombers. Although his aircraft was hit and badly damaged, Major Bustle marked the target for the fighters before he left the target area. By his gallantry and devotion to duty, Major Bustle has reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.