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Navy Federal Credit Union

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 Edward C. Gund (AFSN: FV-2222143), United States Air Force, for gallantry in connection with military operations against an opposing armed force as a Forward Air Controller in an O-1 Bird Dog aircraft of the 20th Tactical Air Support Squadron directing fighter aircraft strikes in Southeast Asia on 6 June 1967. On that date, Major Gund took off in the dark of night, while Khe Sanh Special Forces Camp was under hostile mortar attack, in order to attempt to save a Marine radio relay site which was under simultaneous attack by unfriendly forces. Ignoring a critically low ceiling and continuous fifty caliber anti-aircraft fire which was directed at him, Major Gund controlled tactical airpower and flare ships through the night and saved the lives of the radio site personnel. By his gallantry and devotion to duty, Major Gund has reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.

Awards Received

  • Bronze Star Medal

    Service:

    United States Air Force

    Rank:

    Major

    Action Date:

    November 15, 1966 – August 3, 1967
    Headquarters, 7th Air Force, Special Order G-1392 (September 4, 1967)

    The President of the United States of America, authorized by Executive Order 11046, 24 August 1962, takes pleasure in presenting the Bronze Star Medal to Major Edward C. Gund (AFSN: FV-2222143), United States Air Force, for meritorious service as a Site Commander, Project TIGERHOUND, 20th Tactical Air Support Squadron, DaNang Air Base, Republic of Vietnam, while serving with friendly foreign forces engaged in an armed conflict against an opposing armed force from 15 November 1966 to 3 August 1967. During this period, Major Gund demonstrated far reaching knowledge and insight of the application of tactical airpower in Southeast Asia. He designed bunkers for living and working quarters which successfully withstood a hostile mortar attack only five days after they were completed. He developed procedures for combat sky spot missions which enabled tactical airpower to successfully support ground units in marginal weather and poor visibility. The exemplary leadership, personal endeavor, and devotion to duty displayed by Major Gund in this responsible position reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.