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 Michael James Mahaffey, United States Air Force, for gallantry in action while engaged in military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force while serving with the 569th Tactical Fighter Squadron, Korat Royal Thai Air Force Base, Thailand, in action in Southeast Asia on 12 September 1972. On that date, Captain Mahaffey was flying the number two position in a flight of four F-4 Phantoms providing counter-air escort for a strike flight over North Vietnam when he observed a hostile fighter attacking his flight leader. With complete disregard for his own personal safety, Captain Mahaffey maneuvered his aircraft into firing position and shot down the hostile aircraft, enabling his leader to pursue yet another hostile aircraft. By his gallantry and devotion to duty, Captain Mahaffey has reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Air Force.