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 Captain Byron William Theurer, United States Air Force, for gallantry in action while engaged in military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force over Southeast Asia on 19 April 1966. On that date, Captain Theurer was flying wingman in a flight of two O-1F’s aircraft deep in unfriendly territory when the lead aircraft was shot down by anti-aircraft fire. Immediately, Captain Theurer called for rescue and fighter pilots on the situation and directed the fighters on repetitive air strikes to suppress the found fire and afford an opportunity for the rescue aircraft to reach the downed pilot. Although his aircraft had barely enough fuel to reach friendly territory, Captain Theurer elected to remain on station over the downed aircraft until he had completely briefed the incoming fighter pilots and his forward air controller relief on the current hostile situation. By his gallantry and devotion to duty, Captain Theurer has reflect great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Air Force.