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 Second Lieutenant (Air Corps) Leslie T. Speer (ASN: 0-804529), United States Army Air Forces, for gallantry in action on 6 February 1945, as Co-pilot of a B-25 Mitchell Bomber of the 447th Bombardment Squadron, 321st Bombardment Group (Medium), TWELFTH Air Force, on an operational mission to Rovereto, Italy. During the bomb run, the aircraft was hit by intense and accurate anti-aircraft fire which severed the left wing and disabled one engine, causing the aircraft to rapidly lose speed and altitude. After the order to abandon ship had been given by the pilot, Lieutenant Speer remained at his station to help the pilot control the aircraft, thus enabling the five crew members to parachute safely before another direct hit further damaged the aircraft, causing it to crash in enemy territory. The outstanding courage and steadfast devotion to duty displayed by Lieutenant Speer reflect great credit on himself and the Army Air Forces.