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 Robert Peter White, United States Air Force, for gallantry in connection with military operations against an opposing armed force on 17 September 1972, while serving as a Pilot with the 56th Tactical Fighter Squadron, Korat Royal Thai Air Force Base, Thailand. On that date, as an F-105 Pilot, Major White neutralized a formidable success of heavy artillery that was shelling two rescue helicopters and their swimmers who were attempting to rescue two downed aircrew members. Major White, although continuously under attack himself, selflessly remained in the area, marking the artillery batteries for the escort aircraft and aggressively attacked the remaining batteries, permitting the rescue force to complete their mission. By his gallantry and devotion to duty, Major White as reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Air Force.