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 (Air Corps) Robert Adelbert Karr (ASN: 0-816117), United States Army Air Forces, for gallantry in action as pilot of a P-51 Mustang Fighter Airplane of the 4th Fighter Squadron, 52d Fighter Group, FIFTEENTH Air Force. On 17 December 1944, Captain Karr led a squadron formation as escort to heavy bombers attacking strategic enemy oil installations in Biata, Poland. Approaching the target a large formation of enemy fighters was sighted and, despite the superiority in numbers of the hostile force Captain Karr immediately led his squadron in attack. In the ensuing aerial battle, displaying outstanding aggressiveness, leadership and combat proficiency, Captain Karr destroyed three enemy aircraft, while his squadron accounted for three more destroyed and the remainder of the enemy formation was driven from the area. Through his highly effective protective cover, the bombers were thus enabled to complete a highly successful mission unmolested. By his conspicuous gallantry, aggressive leadership and intense devotion to duty, as evidenced throughout sixty-eight (68) successful missions against the enemy and six enemy aircraft destroyed in aerial flight, Captain Karr has reflected great credit upon himself and the Armed Forces of the United States of America.