Frankie L. Epperley

The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class Frankie L. Epperley, United States Air Force, for gallantry in action near Sinmak, Korea, on 30 April 1951. Private Epperley, aeronautical medical crew member with Detachment 1, 3d Air Rescue Squadron, FIFTH Air Force, accompanied a highly vulnerable helicopter in a flight over enemy held territory to assist in the rescue of a South African Air Force pilot who had bailed out of his aircraft. When the helicopter reached the area, Private Epperley noticed that the pilot was injured. As the helicopter hovered before landing, it met a burst of small arms fire. Private Epperley realized a trap had been set. Fully aware of the danger, he leaped from the aircraft the instant it touched the ground and ran to the pilot. Two enemy soldiers started toward the helicopter but were killed by the strafing fire of friendly fighter aircraft flying cover. Private Epperley assisted the wounded pilot into the aircraft and administered first aid during [the] return flight. Through his courage, skill and devotion to duty, Private Epperley sustained the tradition of the service and reflected great credit upon himself, the Far East Air Forces, and the United States Air Force.