Richard L. Mehr

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Air Force Cross to Richard L. Mehr, Major, U.S. Air Force, for extraordinary heroism in military operations against an opposing armed force while serving as an A-1E Pilot in the 602d Tactical Fighter Squadron (Commando), Udorn Royal Thai Air Base, Thailand, SEVENTH Air Force, in action in Southeast Asia an on 2 and 3 July 1967. On 2 July, Major Mehr flew through intense hostile fire to provide cover for an F-105 pilot downed in a heavily defended area of North Vietnam. With the onset of darkness and diminishing fuel, Major Mehr returned to base for minimum rest. He volunteered to continue rescue operations that were set up for the next day and took off at first light. Amidst MiG fighters, deadly missiles, antiaircraft fire, and hostile small arms fire, he located the downed pilot. Braving this deadly arsenal that damaged his aircraft, he continued to direct air strikes against the hostile positions and thereby protected the downed pilot and permitted a helicopter to rescue the pilot from the area. Through his extraordinary heroism, superb airmanship, and aggressiveness in the face of hostile forces, Major Mehr reflected the highest credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.

The President of the United States takes Pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Richard L. Mehr, Major, U.S. Air Force, for gallantry in connection with military operations against an opposing armed force as an A-1E Skyraider Pilot in Southeast Asian on 10 July 1967. On that date, Major Mehr was flying his A-1E Skyraider in support of a search and rescue effort for a downed F-105 pilot located less than two hundred yards from a heavily defended infiltration route. Major Mehr voluntarily risked his life by making numerous low passes in this area despite low ceilings, mountainous terrain and devastating ground fire which damaged his aircraft on several passes. Major Mehr remained in the area for well over an hour and contributed significantly to the recovery of the downed pilot as well as inflicting heavy losses upon the hostile forces opposing the rescue effort. By his gallantry and devotion to duty, Major Mehr has reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.