Barry D. Hebert

The President of the United States takes Pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Barry D. Hebert, Airman First Class, U.S. Air Force, for gallantry in connection with military operations against an opposing armed force as an HH-3E Pararescue Specialist in North Vietnam on 26 October 1968. On that date, Airman Hebert voluntarily risked his life in extremely hostile area, to effect the successful recovery of an injured Air Force pilot. Airman Hebert descended on the jungle penetrator when the dense jungle canopy hid the survivor and, disregarding the threat to his own life, snared the nearly blind pilot while suspended in mid-air, then protected him with his body as they were hoisted through the trees to safety. By his gallantry and devotion to duty, Airman Hebert has reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.