Harold E. Fischer

The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain Harold Edward Fischer (AFSN: AO-2204126), United States Air Force, for gallantry in action as a Pilot, 39th Fighter-Interceptor Squadron, FIFTHY Air Force, on 24 January 1953. On that date, Captain Fischer was flying number three position in a flight of four F-86 aircraft acting as escort for fighter-bombers on an attack against the Sinanju bridge complex. When enemy MiGs were encountered the flight attacked, during which Captain Fischer’s aircraft was damaged by the misfire of one of his fifty caliber guns. Although the rudder cable was completely severed, the cabin pressurization lost, and the flaps unevenly extended, Captain Fischer aggressively pressed his attack on a MiG, flying through molten metal streaming from the burning MiG. Captain Fischer broke off his attack only after successfully destroying the enemy aircraft and disrupting a possible attack on the friendly fighter bombers. Through his high personal courage in attacking, despite the heavy damage to his aircraft, Captain Fischer demonstrated devotion to duty beyond the normal call, and reflected great credit upon himself, the Far East Air Forces, and the United States Air Force.

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Harold E. Fischer, Captain, U.S. Air Force, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United Nations while serving as Pilot of an F-86 aircraft, 39th Fighter-Interceptor Squadron, 51st Fighter-Interceptor Wing, FIFTH Air Force, in action against enemy forces in the Republic of Korea on 16 February 1953. On that date, while leading a flight of two F-86 Sabre Jets on an air superiority mission over North Korea, Captain Fischer sighted a formation of sixteen enemy MIG-15s heading south across the Yalu River. Disregarding the odds against him, he immediately initiated an attack. Although under intense enemy fire, Captain Fischer tenaciously pursued the leading MIG-15 through violent evasive maneuvers until he had destroyed it. Completely disregarding the fact that several enemy aircraft were still firing at him, Captain Fischer skillfully maneuvered his Sabre into firing position on another MIG-15 that was attacking his wingman. Again demonstrating extreme courage and outstanding flying skill, Captain Fischer pressed his attack until the MIG-15 was destroyed. These two victories in the face of counter attacks by such superior numbers unnerved the enemy to the extent that they withdrew into Manchuria before further attacks could be made. By his outstanding heroism, his complete disregard for personal safety and high sense of duty, Captain Fischer reflected great credit upon himself, the Far East Air Forces, and the United States Air Force.