Headquarters, Far East Air Forces, General Orders No. 23 (June 22, 1944)
The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Major (Air Corps) Edward Frances Roddy (ASN: 0-432210), United States Army Air Forces, for gallantry in action against the enemy as Pilot of a P-47 Fighter Airplane of the 342d Fighter Squadron, 348th Fighter Group, FIFTH Air Force, in action against the enemy over New Britain on 26 December 1943. Major Roddy volunteered to lead a flight of four P-47’s on a mission to patrol over the withdrawal of an Allied convoy, as it was anticipated that the Japanese would dispatch a large force of aircraft to destroy the shipping. When nine enemy bombers appeared, flying in close formation, Major Roddy made a climbing frontal attack and fired on the leading planes. The first aircraft fell away in flames. At the same time, Major Roddy’s windshield was shattered by machine gun fire, showering pieces of glass in his face. Disregarding the damage, he fired on another bomber, which began blazing along the fuselage. Major Roddy’s own plane was forced from the combat a moment later after being hit by a cannon shell, but his flight destroyed all of the remaining Japanese aircraft. Major Roddy’s gallantry and willingness to engage the enemy in total disregard of his personal safety are in keeping with the finest traditions of the Military Service.