The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star to Colonel (Air Corps) Robert Edward Lee Eaton, United States Army Air Forces, for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a B-24 Liberator Bomber and as Commanding Officer of the 451st Bombardment Group (Heavy), FIFTEENTH Air Force, in aerial operations on a bombing mission on synthetic oil refineries at Brux, Czechoslovakia, on 21 July 1944. Through superior leadership, coordination, and maintenance of strict flight discipline, Colonel Eaton brought his entire formation directly to the target. Despite aggressive attacks from persistent enemy fighters, together with intense anti-aircraft fire, with his aircraft severely damaged, he courageously brought his formation through the enemy defenses for a highly successful bombing run, inflicting grave damage to vital installations. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Colonel Eaton, 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.

(Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Colonel (Air Corps) Robert Edward Lee Eaton, United States Army Air Forces, for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a B-24 Liberator Bomber and as Commanding Officer of the 451st Bombardment Group (Heavy), FIFTEENTH Air Force, in aerial operations in the Mediterranean Theater of Operations during World War II. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Colonel Eaton, 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.