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The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Technical Sergeant Bernardino Ornorfio Tortora, United States Army Air Forces, for gallantry in action while serving with the 23d Bombardment Squadron, 5th Bombardment Group (Heavy) SEVENTH Air Force, during the Japanese aerial attack on Hickam Field, Territory of Hawaii, on 7 December 1941. Sergeant Tortora, conspicuous for his bravery, taxied a B-17 across the runway while under heavy enemy bombing and aircraft fire to a safe dispersed position. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Technical Sergeant Tortora, 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.

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Army Air Forces

    Rank:

    Technical Sergeant

    Batallion:

    23d Bombardment Squadron

    Regiment:

    5th Bombardment Group (H)

    Division:

    7th Air Force

    Action Date:

    August 7, 1942
    Headquarters, Allied Air Forces in the Southwest Pacific Area, General Orders No. 44 (September 2, 1942)

    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 Technical Sergeant Bernardino Q. Tortora (ASN: 68777722), United States Army Air Forces, for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving as a gunner a B-17 Flying Fortress Bomber in the 23d Bombardment Squadron, 5th Bombardment Group (Heavy), SEVENTH Air Force, in aerial operations Vunkanau Aircrome, Rabaul, on 7 August 1942. Technical Sergeant Tortora and other gunners shot down seven Japanese Zeros. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Technical Sergeant Tortora, 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.