Lynden E. Thomason

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 Lynden E. Thomason, United States Air Force, for gallantry in action on 20 March 1951. Captain Thomason displayed a very high degree of heroism by accomplishing the rescue of a United Nations pilot forced down behind enemy lines. Although he was aware of the risk involved — the first helicopter to attempt the rescue suffered severe battle damages — Captain Thomason was undaunted and flew to the area, thirty miles behind enemy lines. On reaching the location he attempted an immediate landing, but was forced to pass it over because of intense small arms fire from enemy troops surrounding the distressed pilot. With complete disregard for personal safety, Captain Thomason made repeated attempts to land, but was driven off by the effective small arms fire. When escorting fighters beat down the enemy fire slightly, Captain Thomason landed his helicopter and successfully rescued the pilot, still under enemy fire. Captain Thomason’s exceptional courage and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the service and reflected great credit upon himself, the Far East Air Forces, and the United States Air Force.