(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 Sergeant Robert O. Stephens (ASN: 39170016), United States Army Air Forces, for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving as an Aerial Gunner of a B-24 Liberator Bomber of the 42d Bombardment Squadron, 11th Bombardment Group (Heavy), SEVENTH Air Force, in aerial operations on a bombing mission from Midway to Wake Island, in the Pacific Theater of Operations, on 24 July 1943. As the aircraft moved off Wake Island after completing its bombing run, it was engaged by enemy fighters. One Zero went out of control and collided with the tail of his bomber, causing it to break apart and fall into the ocean. The crew fought to maintain flight and the gunners continued firing until the aircraft hit the water. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Sergeant Stephens, 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.