The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Major (Air Corps) Frank Ackerman Hill (ASN: 0-399962), United States Army Air Forces, for gallantry in action against the enemy as a Fighter Pilot of the 309th Fighter Squadron, 31st Fighter Group, TWELFTH Air Force, in action against the enemy in aerial combat in the Mediterranean Theater of Action on 6 May 1943, Major Hill distinguished himself by heroism and gallantry in action. At approximately 1200 hours, Major Hill was leading his squadron on a fighter sweep on the enemy’s forward landing grounds in the Tunis area. Near Pont du Fahs, the squadron encountered six (6) ME-109’s at 14,000 feet. In an engagement lasting fifteen (15) minutes, Major Hill succeeded in destroying two (2) of the enemy aircraft. At approximately 1630 hours of the same day, Major Hill was again flying with his squadron on a fighter sweep of the battle area. In the vicinity of Oudna, at 5,000 feet, the squadron encountered sixteen (16) ME-109’s and Macchi 202’s. During the engagement which followed, Major Hill attacked three (3) enemy aircraft flying in line astern. By skillfully pressing his attack, he damaged the lead plane, probably destroyed the second and damaged the third. During the same engagement, other pilots of the squadron destroyed four (4) of the enemy aircraft without loss to themselves. By destroying two (2), probably destroying one (1), and damaging two (2) enemy aircraft in one day’s operations, Major Hill performed a feat of great skill and heroism at a time when destruction of enemy fighters were especially important, since the final drive of the North African Campaign was just beginning. Such actions reflect great credit upon himself and upon the Military Service of the United States. It is certain that such heroic deeds serve as an example of courage and heroism to all members of our armed forces.