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 First Lieutenant Bruce Verne Huneke, United States Air Force, for gallantry in action while engaged in military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force while serving as an F-4 Pilot with the 13th Tactical Fighter Squadron, Udorn Royal Thai Air Force Base, Thailand, in action in Southeast Asia on 5 February 1968. On that date, Lieutenant Huneke was in a flight of fighter aircraft flying protective cover for eight fighter-bombers when he observed a high performance hostile fighter attacking the force. With complete disregard for his own personal safety, Lieutenant Huneke attacked the hostile aircraft. Although coming under attack himself, Lieutenant Huneke pressed his attack, destroying the first hostile aircraft and successfully evading the second. The courageous and aggressive attack by Lieutenant Huneke not only resulted in one hostile aircraft destroyed, but also drove the hostile fighter force away from the more vulnerable friendly aircraft. By his gallantry and devotion to duty, Lieutenant Huneke has reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Air Force.