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), [then Second Lieutenant Alden B. Gordon (ASN: 0-749689), United States Army Air Forces, for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a Heavy Bomber in the 331st Bombardment Squadron, 94th Bombardment Group (Heavy), EIGHTH Air Force, on a heavy bombardment mission to Berlin, Germany, on 18 April 1944. During the course of the action, the airplane was severely damaged and set on fire by four successive waves of enemy fighters. Despite the flames which licked about his hands and face, he remained at the controls, holding his aircraft in level flight throughout the enemy attacks, while members of his crew made their escape. Only after the last living member had bailed out did he relinquish the controls and make his escape. The courage, skill, and conspicuous gallantry displayed by Lieutenant Gordon reflect great credit on himself and the armed forces of the United States.