(Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: 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 Sergeant Rufus Harold Cantrill (ASN: 18089947), United States Army Air Forces, for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving as a member of the Air Crew of a B-24 Liberator Bomber in the 380th Bombardment Group (Heavy), FIFTH Air Force, in aerial operations while participating in a bombing mission on 10 July 1943, against enemy targets at Babo, New Guinea. Sergeant Cantrill was serving in the lead ship in a bombing formation that was intercepted by Japanese Zeroes when a cannon shell set fire to the bomb bay section. The bomber continued its steady run on the target until the bombardier could release the bombs. Then the bomber circled out of control while the Pilot struggled to control it. He leveled off finally and four of his crew parachuted safely from the ship. After they had safely exited the aircraft, it went out of control and plunged to the ground. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Sergeant Cantrill, 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.