The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain (Air Corps) Harry Nathan Brandon (ASN: 0-21754), United States Army Air Forces, for gallantry in action during the performance of aerial flight against an armed enemy. On 23 February 1942, Captain Brandon was pilot of a bomber aircraft of the 40th Reconnaissance Squadron, in a night attack on enemy installations in Rabaul. Severe weather conditions were encountered but despite the loss of several of his flight, Captain Brandon finally reached the target area only to find it obscured by low cloud formation over the entire area. Course was then set for Gasmata, the alternative objective, and while on this course the flight was attacked by five enemy fighters, which pursued Captain Brandon and two other aircraft for 40 minutes, and wounded two members of his bomber’s air crew. Two engines of the Flight Leader’s bomber were knocked out, and Captain Brandon flew protection with one other bomber, personally shooting down two Zeros. At this point, realizing that the target could not be reached with the fuel remaining, their course was set for Port Moresby, where landing was made with the entire flight almost without fuel. Captain Brandon’s determination, calm judgment, excellent leadership, and splendid flying ability were directly responsible for the successful return of this flight through severe weather conditions and enemy resistance. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Captain Brandon, 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.