John F. Tobey

The President of the United States takes Pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to John F. Tobey, Staff Sergeant, U.S. Air Force, for gallantry in connection with military operations against an opposing armed force as a Pararescue Technician near DaNang, Republic of Vietnam on 8 May 1967. On that date, Sergeant Tobey participated in the rescue of four wounded troops. With complete disregard for his own personal safety, he left the helicopter and was lowered to the ground in known hostile territory to facilitate pickup of the wounded. When the rescue helicopter was then shot down, Sergeant Tobey was the first to reach the scene and immediately gave medical attention to the three who had been injured in the crash. Sergeant Tobey maintained a constant watch over the wounded until they were picked up. By his gallantry and devotion to duty, Airman Tobey has reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.