The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain (Air Corps), [then First Lieutenant] Charles T. Barnes (ASN: 0-905095), United States Army Air Forces, for gallantry in action while serving with the Office of Strategic Services, In action from 5 August 1944 to 25 August 1944. Captain Barnes was parachuted into the Brittany Peninsula, as an Intelligence Officer, to assist in establishing a communications system between the THIRD United States Army and resistance forces and to direct resistance activities. The liquidation of a detachment of several hundred of the enemy was largely attributable to his courage and initiative, when, after unsuccessful attempts to effect a surrender, he and a French officer, armed only with carbines, opened fire, constantly changing firing position to convey the impression of a large force. They bluffed the enemy into evacuating the city, and upon arrival of armored forces, Captain Barnes rode on the first tank to direct the pursuit. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Captain Barnes, 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.