(Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: 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 Lieutenant Colonel James P. Cooney, United States Air Force, for gallantry in action while engaged in military operations involving conflict with an opposing armed force in Southeast Asia on 12 May 1972. By his gallantry and devotion to duty, Lieutenant Colonel Cooney has reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.