The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star (Army Award) to Lieutenant Colonel Paul John Fontana (MCSN: 0-5344), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with a Marine Air Group at Kimpo Airfield, Korea, on 21 September 1950. Lieutenant Colonel Fontana, as tactical air coordinator, was assigned the mission of executing close air support against an enemy strongpoint at Yong Dong Po, Korea. With a high degree of courage and skill, he led his strike against fierce enemy anti-aircraft fire, personally making numerous passes at extremely low altitudes. As a result of this daring attack the enemy installations were completely neutralized. Lieutenant Colonel Fontana’s heroic actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.