The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star to Technical Sergeant Charles C. Schierholz (ASN: 6557684), United States Army Air Forces, for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving as Bombardier of a B-17 Flying Fortress Bomber in the FIFTH Air Force, in aerial operations south of Gasmata, New Britain, in the Southwest Pacific Theater of Operations, on 1 August 1942. Sergeant Schierholz was the Bombardier of a Flying Fortress which was engaged on a raid against enemy shipping. When about one hour’s flight from target, the plane developed engine trouble, necessitating the feathering of a propeller and leaving the formation. The plane continued its search for the enemy, however, and upon sighting the convoy made its bombing run in the face of heavy and accurate anti-aircraft fire. Enemy fire hit the forward section of the plane, showering Sergeant Schierholz with glass, which injured his eyes. He nevertheless remained at his bombsight, dropping the bombs so accurately that the transport was completely disabled and had to be beached. During the return flight, which was made on two engines, Sergeant Schierholz, disregarding his injuries, remained at his guns, ready to guard the aircraft from any possible enemy pursuit. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Technical Sergeant Schierholz, 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.