an insurrection at Quilali, Nicaragua, 6, 7, and 8 January 1928, 1st Lt. Schilt, then a member of a marine expedition which had suffered severe losses in killed and wounded, volunteered under almost impossible conditions to evacuate the wounded by air and transport a relief commanding officer to assume charge of a very serious situation. 1st Lt Schilt bravely undertook this dangerous and important task and, by taking off a total of 10 times in the rough, rolling street of a partially burning village, under hostile infantry fire on each occasion, succeeded in accomplishing his mission, thereby actually saving 3 lives and bringing supplies and aid to others in desperate need. Distinguished Service Medal citation Citation: The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Medal to Major General Christian Franklin Schilt, United States Marine Corps, for exceptionally meritorious service to the United States while in a position of great responsibility from 27 July 1951 to 5 April 1952. As Commanding General of the FIRST Marine Air Wing, United States Marine Corps, General Schilt provided United Nations Forces engaged in action against the enemy in Korea with outstanding tactical air support for ground operations. Operating from three separate sites, including an aircraft carrier, General Schilt skillfully integrated his unit into Far East Air Forces interdiction program by implementing highly efficient fighter bomber, night intruder and night interdiction operations against enemy support missions. Concurrently, the Wing performed productive photo reconnaissance missions, helicopter airlift, and air rescue operations. The Wing contributed to the destruction of ammunition stockpiles, fuel lubrications and other combat material, and proved an efficient deterrent to the build-up of the enemy's war machine. Achieving success in all its operations, the Wing materially aided the overall Far East Air Forces operations. The outstanding combat efficiency of the First Marine Air Wing in sustained operations against the enemy in Korea was achieved through the able and mature guidance of General Schilt. His vast experience in aerial combat was not only a valuable source of aid to operations of the United Nations Forces, but also evoked the full and unceasing effort of his command toward the United Nations' objective in Korea. General Schilt's significant achievements in combat, and his resourceful leadership sustained the highest traditions of the military service and reflected great credit upon himself, the United States