The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant (Air Corps) Ralph K. Watts (ASN: 0-427063), United States Army Air Forces, for gallantry in action while serving as Co-Pilot of a B-17 Flying Fortress Bomber of the 435th Bombardment Squadron (Heavy), FIFTH Air Force, in action over Faisi Harbor, Solomon Islands, on 3 September 1942. Lieutenant Watts was engaged on a reconnaissance mission over enemy air and naval bases at Buka, Kieta and Faisi. Weather conditions were so unfavorable and there was such a heavy overcast at Faisi that the run was made at an altitude of 700 feet. A cargo vessel, two large flying boats and a destroyer, which was one of four warships observed in the harbor, were strafed. Despite heavy anti-aircraft fire from the warships and shore batteries, the airplane was able to complete its mission and return to its base without damage. Lieutenant Watts ably assisted the Pilot in maneuvering the aircraft to avoid enemy fire and in flying on instruments, thereby reducing the chances of interception. His skill and courage in the face of enemy opposition are worthy of the highest commendation.