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 William S. Van Gilder (AFSN: FR-44143), United States Air Force, for gallantry in connection with military operations against an opposing armed force while serving with the 469th Tactical Fighter Squadron, over North Vietnam, on 23 April 1967. On that date, Major Van Gilder led a flight against North Vietnam’s largest steel mill and delivered flak suppression ordnance against the surrounding defenses. He then refueled and returned to the area of a downed pilot and performed the hazardous duty of covering this rescue in an extremely hostile environment. By his gallantry and devotion to duty, Major Van Gilder has reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.