The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Major (Air Corps) Howard Allan Davis (ASN: 0-437919/FR-3868), United States Army Air Forces, for gallantry in action while serving as Pilot of a B-24 Liberator Bomber of the 721st Bombardment Squadron, 450th Bombardment Group (Heavy), FIFTEENTH Air Force, in action against the enemy on 12 April 1944. On that date, Major Davis led the Wing Formation on a mission to bomb an enemy aircraft factory in Southern Germany. This important target was successfully bombed by the entire formation and the excellent leadership of Major Davis, in spite of intense flak and many enemy fighters, was in great part responsible for the terrific amount of damage inflicted. Discovering upon leaving the target that five armed bombs had lodged in the bomb bay and jammed the controls, he directed his crew in safe-tying the live bombs so that they would not explode. Not having use of the controls, it was necessary for him to constantly adjust power settings and move his crew about in order to maneuver the plane and maintain altitude in order to reach base. Major Davis directed the rest of the formation to leave him as an explosion in his plane would endanger the rest. On approaching the field, through advice by radio, the fuses of the bombs were removed and a safe landing made in spite of two punctured tires. Major Davis’ skill and his gallantry in bringing his plane through this dire emergency undoubtedly saved the plane and the lives of his crew. By his gallantry, courage, and leadership, Major Davis has reflected great credit upon himself and the Armed Forces of the United States.

(Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star to Major (Air Corps) Howard Allan Davis (ASN: 0-437919/FR-3868), United States Army Air Forces, for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a B-24 Liberator Bomber with the 721st Bombardment Squadron, 450th Bombardment Group (Heavy), FIFTEENTH Air Force, in aerial operations in the Mediterranean Theater of Operations during World War II. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Major Davis, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army Air Forces.