The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain (Air Corps) Lowell Kermit Brueland (AFSN: 9422A/ASN: 0-730366), United States Army Air Forces, for gallantry in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving as Pilot of a P-51 Fighter Airplane in the 355th Fighter Squadron, 354th Fighter Group, NINTH Air Force, on 13 May 1944. While leading a squadron of P-51 type aircraft in a long range escort mission, Captain Brueland demonstrated extraordinary courage and fearless tactical skill in leading an attack upon more than twenty-five enemy aircraft. Displaying great determination and coolness in the face of unequal odds he pressed home his attacks and accounted for one enemy aircraft destroyed while dispersing the remainder. The valor and aggressive fighting spirit which he displayed on this occasion reflect great credit upon himself and the Army Air Forces.