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 Lieutenant Colonel Donald Davis Klein, United States Air Force, for gallantry in action while engaged in military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam. Lieutenant Colonel Klein distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions while serving as Aircraft Commander of a B-57 Bomber with the 8th Tactical Bombardment Squadron, 35th Tactical Fighter Wing, SEVENTH Air Force, in action against the enemy over Southeast Asia on 16 April 1968. On that date, Lieutenant Colonel Klein flew a night armed reconnaissance mission against hostile supply lines. With complete disregard for his personal safety, he made eleven separate low level passes against a large truck convoy. Despite intense anti-aircraft fire and poor weather conditions, he succeeded in destroying or damaging nearly every truck in the convoy. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Lieutenant Colonel Klein, 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 Air Force.