Sponsored by:

Navy Federal Credit Union

The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Brigadier General August Walter Kissner (ASN: 0-17282), United States Army Air Forces, for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving with Headquarters, EIGHTH Air Force from 6 August to 12 August 1944. General Kissner, as Air Commander, led a Division Task Force on a hazardous shuttle bombing operations against five high priority targets in Europe. The initial attack was successfully carried out in spite of fierce enemy fighter opposition and the formation landed at friendly bases. After organizing and leading his units in a devastating attack against enemy oil installations, General Kissner directed his Combat Wings in a two-pronged attack against airfields in enemy-occupied territory, again landing at friendly bases. On the final leg of the mission, the Division wrought havoc on one of the few remaining airfields of the Germans in *****. The outstanding success of the entire operation is in a large measure attributable to the gallant leadership of General Kissner, whose actions inspired all those who participated with him.

Awards Received

  • Legion of Merit

    Service:

    United States Army Air Forces

    Rank:

    Brigadier General

    Action Date:

    January 1945 – August 1945
    Headquarters, United States Army Strategic Air Forces, General Orders No. 18 (August 26, 1945)

    The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, 20 July 1942, takes pleasure in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Legion of Merit to Brigadier General August W. Kissner (ASN: 0-17282), United States Army Air Forces, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States from January to August 1945. The singularly distinctive accomplishments of General Kissner and his dedicated contributions in the service of his country reflect the highest credit upon himself and the United States Army Air Forces.

  • Legion of Merit

    Service:

    United States Army Air Forces

    Rank:

    Brigadier General

    Action Date:

    September 6, 1944 – January 28, 1945
    Headquarters, European Theater of Operations, General Orders No. 120 (June 14, 1945)

    The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, 20 July 1942, takes pleasure in presenting the Legion of Merit to Brigadier General August W. Kissner (ASN: 0-17282), United States Army Air Forces, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States from 6 September 1944 to 28 January 1945. The singularly distinctive accomplishments of General Kissner and his dedicated contributions in the service of his country reflect the highest credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.

  • Air Force Distinguished Service Medal

    Service:

    United States Air Force

    Rank:

    Major General

    Action Date:

    September 1, 1953 – March 3, 1958
    Department of the Air Force, General Orders No. 56 (October 14, 1958)

    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 Air Force Distinguished Service Medal (Army Design) to Major General August W. Kissner (ASN: 0-17282), United States Air Force, for exceptionally meritorious and distinguished service in a position of great responsibility to the Government of the United States from 1 September 1953 to 3 March 1958 in the demanding capacities of Chief, Joint United States Military Group, Spain; Chief Military Assistance Advisory Group, Spain; and Commander, SIXTEENTH Air Force. The outstanding leadership, ability, judgment and diplomacy consistently displayed by General Kissner were instrumental factors in the successful completion of major construction projects of far-reaching significance to the continued preservation of peace. The singularly distinctive accomplishments of Major General Kissner culminate a distinguished career in the service of his country and his dedicated contributions reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.

  • Army Distinguished Service Medal

    Service:

    United States Army Air Forces

    Rank:

    Brigadier General

    Action Date:

    February – August 1945
    War Department, General Orders No. 110 (November 27, 1945)

    The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Army Distinguished Service Medal to Brigadier General August W. Kissner (ASN: 0-17282), United States Army Air Forces, for exceptionally meritorious and distinguished services to the Government of the United States, in a duty of great responsibility as Chief of Staff, 21st Bomber Command Headquarters on Guam, from February to August 1945. The singularly distinctive accomplishments of General Kissner and his dedicated contributions in the service of his country reflect the highest credit upon himself and the United States Army Air Forces.