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 [then Sergeant] Albert M. Sandlin (ASN: 18078167), United States Army Air Forces, for gallantry in action against the enemy on 12 September 1944, while serving as Waist Gunner of a B-17 Flying Fortress Bomber of the 511th Bombardment Squadron, 351st Bombardment Group (Heavy), EIGHTH Air Force, on a combat mission over Germany. En route to the target, his aircraft was crippled by flak, forcing the crew to bail out. Sergeant Sandlin refused to leave the airplane until he had administered oxygen and first aid to a wounded comrade and helped him clear the airplane a few moments before the airplane exploded. Sergeant Sandlin’s heroic action saved the life of his crew mate. His gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, 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.