CITATION TO ACCOMPANY THE AWARD OF THE SILVER STAR

THE VIETNAM WAR - SOUTHEAST ASIA - THE REPUBLIC OF VIETNAM

HAYDEN F. SEARS

Captain Hayden F. Sears distinguished himself by gallantry in connection with military operations against an opposing armed force at the United States Marine Combat Support Base, Khe Sanh, Republic of Vietnam on 23 February 1968.

On that date, Captain Sears led three airmen in removing a bundle which had closed the runway. Captain Sears and the three airmen removed the bundle during a heavy mortar and rocket attack at great personal risk to their own lives.

The removal of the bundle opened the runway and permitted a C-123 aircraft, which would otherwise have been destroyed by the mortar and rocket attack, to take off.

By his gallantry and devotion to duty, Captain Sears has reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.