The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant (Air Corps) Edward R. Stevens (ASN: 0-754034), United States Army Air Forces, for gallantry in action while serving as Pilot of a B-17 Flying Fortress Bomber of the 457th Bombardment Group (Heavy), EIGHTH Air Force, in support of combat operations in the European Theater of Operations, from 24 to 26 June 1944. After taking heavy anti-aircraft fire during an operation over France, First Lieutenant Stevens was forced to abort his mission 100 miles inland. Instead of bailing out over enemy territory, First Lieutenant Stevens crossed the English Channel at very low altitudes with one of four functioning engines and extensive damage to the plane’s wings and fuselage. Despite the severity of damage to his plane, he was able to conduct an emergency landing on England’s shore without sustaining any casualties or further damage to his aircraft. First Lieutenant Stevens’ actions are in keeping with the finest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.