(Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private James E. Bittner (ASN: 13022508), United States Army Air Forces, for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving with the V Interceptor Command, Far East Air Force, in action against the enemy in the Philippine Islands, on 23 December 1941. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Private Bittner, 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.