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 John Albert Russ, III, United States Air Force, for gallantry in connection with military operations against an opposing armed force while serving as a Pilot with the 433d Tactical Fighter Squadron, Ubon Royal Thai Air Force Base, Thailand, in action over North Vietnam on 13 October 1972. On that date, First Lieutenant Russ, an F-4 Aircraft Commander, participated in a flight of four F-4 Phantoms, flying deep into hostile territory to destroy an important railroad siding. Although his aircraft was severely damaged by ground fire, he pressed on with the attack while braving withering antiaircraft artillery fire and surface-to-air missiles in order to place his ordnance on target. By his gallantry and devotion to duty, First Lieutenant Russ has reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Air Force.