(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 First Lieutenant (Air Corps) George H. Birkner (ASN: 0-814798), United States Army Air Forces, for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a Fighter Airplane in the 355th Fighter Squadron, 354th Fighter Group, NINTH Air Force, in aerial operations in the European Theater of Operations, on or about 29 January 1945. His gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, 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.