Charles F. Salome

The President of the United States takes Pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Charles F. Salome, Technical Sergeant, U.S. Air Force, for gallantry in connection with military operations against an opposing armed force near Ban Ban, Laos on 20 December 1972. On that date, after having participated in the rescue of three survivors, Sergeant Salome, with total disregard for his own safety, volunteered to descend to the jungle floor on the rescue hoist to search for a missing and seriously injured airman, even though hostile activity and ground fire had been encountered in the area. Knowing the possibility of being left on the ground, he continued his thorough search for over forty minutes. By his gallantry and devotion to duty, Sergeant Salome has reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.