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 Sergeant John E. Lebold, United States Air Force, for gallantry in connection with military operations against an opposing armed force while serving with Detachment 6, 6th Aerial Port Squadron, Clark Air Base, Republic of the Philippines, in action against the enemy at Tan Son Nhut Air Base, Republic of Vietnam, on 29 April 1975. Amidst heavy artillery and rocket firepower, plus panic stricken Vietnamese Air Force pilots and refugees, he steadfastly maintained his post to provide essential high frequency communications, and personally removed live ordnance from the runway, thereby preventing loss of life and aircraft, and enabling numerous aircraft departures from the besieged Tan Son Nhut Airfield during the emergency evacuation operation. By his gallantry and devotion to duty, Sergeant Lebold has reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.