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 Christopher Michael Short, United States Air Force, for gallantry in action in connection with military operations against an opposing armed force while serving with the 335th Fighter Squadron, at Shahi Kot Valley, Afghanistan, on 4 March 2002. On that date, Flying as TWISTER 51, his professional skill and airmanship enabled the flight to successfully respond to time critical aerial re-tasking and defended the crew and tactical air control party of a downed friendly helicopter under enemy fire. After successful completion of two prior taskings, Major Short was told to contact SLICK 01 from the downed helicopter. SLICK 01 reported they were taking fire from enemy troops seventy-five meters from their position and requested strafe passes only due to Danger Close – friendly troops within minimum risk distances of injury and death from friendly weapons. Target recognition and delivery accuracy were imperative. Major Short quickly located and positively identified the downed helicopter, friendly position, and the enemy. Without regard for his own safety, Major Short made four strafe passes at 1,500 feet above ground level, exposing himself to the same enemy fire that downed the CH-47 helicopter. SLICK 01 reported enemy fire was suppressed on each pass but requested more passes to kill steadily increasing numbers of reinforced Al Qaeda and Taliban forces. Out of 20 millimeter ammunition, Major Short became the Forward Air Controller-Airborne, targeting TWISTER 52 on four more low altitude strafe passes. Major Short then contacted CLASH flight, two F-16s just arriving on station, and directed them into the target area. After ensuring CLASH was visual with friendly and enemy positions and understood the attack restrictions, Major Short passed control of the target area to CLASH 71 and departed for the tanker. After refueling, TWISTER returned to the target area. Due to an inoperative ultra high frequency radio, Major Short passed the tactical lead to TWISTER 52. With SLICK 01’s concurrence, TWISTER flight “walked” each of their successive bombs closer to Al Qaeda and Taliban forces without injuring United States forces. By inflicting direct losses to Al Qaeda and Taliban forces, and subjecting himself to enemy fire to suppress the same and provided cover for downed friendly troops seventy-five meters from enemy forces, Major Short’s aviation prowess was responsible for the eventual rescue of twenty-three personnel and for advancing the goals of the United States’ war on terrorism. By his gallantry and devotion to duty, Major Short has reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.