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) Rudolph E. Flack (ASN: 0-371840), United States Army Air Forces, for gallantry in action against the enemy while as Pilot of a B-17 Flying Fortress Bomber in the 97th Bombardment Group (Heavy), 97th Bombardment Group (Heavy), EIGHTH Air Force. Major Flack demonstrated extraordinary skill, gallantry, and leadership over enemy-occupied territory in North Africa during the period 14 January 1943 to 22 January 1943. As commander of his Heavy Bombardment Squadron, and at great risk to his personal safety, Major Flack led two high altitude daylight bombardment missions, both of which resulted in heavy losses to the enemy. By his skill as a pilot and flight leader, despite intense anti-aircraft barrages, Major Flack on each occasion successfully led his flight over the assigned target and accurately bombed important enemy military installations. This was accomplished without the loss of any United States aircraft. Major Flack by his courage and coolness under heavy anti-aircraft fire, his marked ability as pilot and flight leader, has served the armed forces of his country gallantly and well, and h is brave deeds have furthered their aims and ideals. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Major Flack, 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.