The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain (Air Corps) Freddie Hobrecht (ASN: 0-663729), United States Army Air Forces, for gallantry and extraordinary achievement in action while serving as a Pilot with 23d Fighter Squadron, 36th Fighter Group, U.S. Strategic Air Forces in Europe, in action against the enemy near Alencon, France, on 13 August 1944. Captain Hobrecht circled low over enemy anti-aircraft positions diverting their fire to cover the descent by parachute of an unknown American pilot, and at the same time forcing hostile enemy ground troops to take cover. After his plane had been vitally hit and he had suffered wounds from light flank he successfully attacked and knocked out an enemy gun position before taking to his parachute. His display of skill, gallantry, and courage, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army Air Forces.