The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Sergeant Meddie N. Poirier (ASN: 6149321), United States Army Air Forces, for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving as Photographer and Side Gunner of a B-17 Flying Fortress Bomber in the FIFTH Air Force, in aerial operations while engaged on a reconnaissance over Rabaul Harbor, in New Guinea, and nearby shipping lanes. Over Rabaul, five Zero fighters were seen taking off and ten minutes later for of them attacked this plane. In the ensuing engagement during which two enemy aircraft were destroyed, Sergeant Poirier operated a side gun and ably assisted in repelling the enemy attach. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Sergeant Poirier, 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.