Navy Federal Credit Union

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) Edgar E. Barr, United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving as Pilot of a P-38 Lightning Fighter Airplane of the 339th Fighter Squadron, 347th Fighter Group, THIRTEENTH Air Force, while participating in an aerial flight on 10 December 1942 in the Solomon Islands area. Lieutenant Barr, as Pilot of a P-38 fighter airplane, assumed the role of leader of a flight of fighters escorting bombers on a mission to attack enemy shipping, after the flight leader was forced to return to his base due to mechanical failure. As the target was neared, thirty enemy Zero fighters were encountered. Disregarding the enemy’s superiority in numbers, Lieutenant Barr, without hesitation, led the flight in a determined attack against the enemy force in order to protect the bombers. In the battle that followed, five Zeros were destroyed and one other probably destroyed. The skill and determination displayed by Lieutenant Barr on this mission resulted in his being credited with one enemy airplane destroyed and contributed greatly toward the achievements accomplished on this mission. With the fighter protection the bombers were able to bomb their target and to sink one enemy ship, scoring hits on others. His gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, 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.

Awards Received