Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Army Air Forces

    Rank:

    Captain (Air Corps)

    Batallion:

    786th Bombardment Squadron

    Regiment:

    466th Bombardment Group (H)

    Division:

    8th Air Force

    Action Date:

    World War II

    Headquarters, 8th Air Force, General Orders No. 453 (June 12, 1944)

    The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Captain (Air Corps) Ralph Sherwood Bryant (ASN: 0-437192), United States Army Air Forces, for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a B-24 Liberator Bomber of the 786th Bombardment Squadron, 466th Bombardment Group (Heavy), EIGHTH Air Force, in aerial operations in the European Theater of Operations 29 April 1944. Piloting a specially equipped B-24 on a scheduled flight, Captain Bryant took the lead when the aircraft which was ordered to lead off failed to take off. He discovered before crossing the English coast that his plane had developed mechanical trouble which would in all probability hinder a safe return. Fully realizing the danger involved, he maintained the lead position and skillfully maneuvered the formation through adverse weather, to reach the assigned objective, which was successfully bombed. Over the target one engine of his Liberator was knocked out, and other serious damaged sustained. Though he made every effort to land his crippled bomber, he was forced to land it in the North Sea, about 30 miles off the coast of England. He continually encouraged his crew while they awaited the arrival of rescue boats but died himself, as he was being lifted into the boat. Captain Bryant’s 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.