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) Victor Eugene Bocquin (ASN: 0-814639), United States Army Air Forces, for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving with the 363d Fighter Squadron, 361st Fighter Group, EIGHTH Air Force on 27 September 1944. Lieutenant Bocquin was leading a Squadron of P-51 fighters escorting a bombing mission when approximately forty FW-190’s attacked the formation. With utter disregard for the enemy’s numerical superiority and thinking only of the safety of the bombers, he led his planes in a vigorous assault. After successfully frustrating the attack, they pursued the enemy down through two layers of overcast to destroy eighteen aircraft. During this engagement, Lieutenant Bocquin personally shot down three FW-190’s and furnished support for two of his comrades in successful attacks. His courage, aggressive combat tactics and determination to destroy the enemy, were contributing factors to the success of the mission. 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.