The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to First Lieutenant (Air Corps) Leonard Reed Farron (ASN: 0-432011), United States Army Air Forces, for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a P-39 Airacobra Fighter airplane of the 67th Fighter Squadron, 347th Fighter Group, FIFTH Air Force, in aerial action while participating in an aerial flight over the Solomon Islands on 14 October 1942. As pilot of a P-39 fighter airplane, Lieutenant Farron undertook a mission with seven other fighters to locate and attack an enemy naval force of seven destroyers and six large transports. Lieutenant Farron took off with the realization that the weather was closing in and that after the return trip would be after dark. Upon reaching the target he dive bombed in the face of intense antiaircraft fire and then made repeated strafing attacks. Although four of the flight were unable to find the home field, Lieutenant Farron returned to his base after dark. His gallant perseverance and fortitude were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army Air Forces.