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 James A. Powell (ASN: 14107281), United States Army Air Forces, for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving as an Aerial Gunner of a B-24 Liberator Bomber in the 761st Bombardment Squadron, 460th Bombardment Group (Heavy), 15th Air Force, in aerial operations during a flight near Castel Maggiore, Italy, on 22 June 1944. During a bombing attack on Castel Maggiore, the plane in which Staff Sergeant Powell was a gunner was hit by antiaircraft fire and so severely crippled that the entire crew was forced to parachute to safety. As the men prepared to jump from their stricken craft the bombardier’s parachute became fouled and despite the fact that the airplane was rapidly losing altitude and in immediate danger of crashing, Staff Sergeant Powell remained behind to assist the officer in freeing himself. Through this act of heroism and gallantry he not only saved the life of a comrade in arms, but reflected great credit upon himself. His actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army Air Forces.