Felix Asla

The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Major Felix Asla, Jr., United States Air Force, for gallantry in action against an enemy of the United Nations as Flight Leader of four F-86 type aircraft, 336th Fighter-Interceptor Squadron, 4th Fighter-Interceptor Group, FIFTH Air Force, on 1 April 1952. While Major Asla and his flight were engaging six MIG-15s, they were attacked by another enemy flight. His wingman sustained a direct hit which destroyed nearly half the left wing. Despite being constantly under direct fire, Major Asla protected his wingman by turning into every pass made against the crippled F-86 by pairs of MIG-15s and successfully countered every thrust, damaging two of the enemy aircraft. Even though he knew his fuel was insufficient for his return to base, Major Asla continued his protective tactics until his wingman could bail out in a safe area. He then climbed to thirty eight thousand feet, glided back to friendly territory, and made a successful air-start, landing with less than twenty gallons of fuel. Through his selfless courage, skillful airmanship, and outstanding devotion to duty, Major Asla reflected great credit upon himself, the Far East Air Forces, and the United States Air Force.