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 Major Bernard Joseph Goss (AFSN: FR-30482), United States Air Force, for gallantry in connection with military operations against an opposing armed force while serving as a Pilot with the 421st Tactical Fighter Squadron, Korat Royal Thai Air Base, Thailand, in action near Hanoi, North Vietnam, on 23 April 1966. On that date, Major Goss led a flight of four F-105D Thunderchiefs tasked to attack and destroy a key railroad bridge vital to the North Vietnamese war effort. As Major Goss began his high speed, low level dash to the target, he encountered a virtual curtain of anti-aircraft fire which severely damaged his aircraft. Realizing the importance of the mission, Major Goss ordered his flight to continue to the target as he turned toward mountainous terrain with smoke and fuel streaming from his aircraft. The outstanding courage of Major Goss was exemplified when he elected to eject over hostile territory rather than secure assistance from his flight by diverting it from the target. By his gallantry and devotion to duty, Major Goss has reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.