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 Theodore Russell Harris (AFSN: AO-782261), United States Air Force, for gallantry in action against an armed enemy of the United Nations as Aircraft Commander of RB-29 type aircraft of the 91st Strategic Reconnaissance Squadron, FAR EAST Air Forces, on the night of 3 July 1952. On that date, Captain Harris flew on a highly classified mission into North Korea to gather photo intelligence of vital importance to United Nations operations. Just before the target was reached, the crew was warned that enemy MiGs were in the area and would probably attack since it was a clear night with full moon. Despite this hazard, Captain Harris proceeded to the target, where radar-controlled searchlights and moderate flak were encountered. At this time, numerous enemy MiGs began to initiate attacks in waves of three. Even though hits from the second attack started a fire in the fuselage, Captain Harris continued his photographic run. Another MiG attack scored hits on the left wing, causing fire which rapidly spread to the bomb bay tanks, at which time Captain Harris gave the order to bail out. Without oxygen equipment now and suffering intense pain from flames in the cockpit and bomb bays, Captain Harris continued to maintain control of the heavily damaged aircraft. Although the rudder was jammed and there was no control of the left elevator or left aileron, Captain Harris calmly remained at the controls, fighting to keep the ship straight and level. Only after the crew had successfully bailed out did Captain Harris leave the aircraft. Through the high personal courage he demonstrated by remaining at his controls despite intense pain so that his crew could abandon the aircraft, and through his intrepidity and exemplary devotion to duty, Captain Harris reflected great credit upon himself, the FAR EAST Air Forces, and the United States Air Force.