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) Henry D. Chism, Jr. (ASN: 0-440335), United States Army Air Forces, for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving with the 345th Bombardment Squadron (Heavy), 98th Bombardment Group (Heavy), NINTH Air Force, in action against enemy forces in the Mediterranean Theater of Operations. On 3 October 1942, he, while acting in his capacity as bombardier of a four engine heavy bomber (B-24D) during a difficult and hazardous mission over Navarino Bay, did drop his explosives with expert skill and precision enabling his plane to depart from the target expeditiously thereby placing it in immediate readiness for action against enemy pursuit one of which was shot down by his plane and another of which was thwarted from further attack. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by First Lieutenant Chism, 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.