The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Second Lieutenant Timothy Covert Clark (MCSN: 0-32557), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while participating in an aerial flight in operations against the enemy at Kagoshima Harbor, South Kyushu, Japan, on 18 March 1945. As pilot of a carrier-based fighter plane he took an outstanding part in an attack against enemy shipping within a well-defended harbor area, in which two hits were scored on enemy ships. Despite fierce and accurate anti-aircraft fire he scored a direct bomb hit on one 2,500-ton enemy vessel and then knowing that his plane had been damaged by enemy fire he returned to make still another attack. With his plane badly damaged and in the face of intense anti-aircraft fire from ships and shore batteries he courageously continued to attack military objectives in the area until he was forced down. His determination, courage and skill in carrying out these attacks under decidedly adverse circumstances were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.


