(Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Staff Sergeant Gene R. Pilgrim (ASN: 38185250), United States Army Air Forces, for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving as Tail Gunner of a B-17 Flying Fortress Bomber in the 570th Bombardment Squadron, 390th Bombardment Group (Heavy), EIGHTH 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 Staff Sergeant Pilgrim, 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.