The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private Joseph M. BUDDE (ASN: 6579742), United States Army Air Forces, for gallantry in action while serving with the 435th Bombardment Squadron (Heavy), FIFTH Air Force, in action over Faisi Harbor, Solomon Islands, on 3 September 1942. Private Budde was the Bottom Turret Gunner on a B-17E type aircraft engaged on a reconnaissance mission over enemy air and naval bases at Buka, Kista and Faisi. Weather conditions were so unfavorable and there was such a heavy overcast at Faisi that the run had to be made at an altitude of 700 feet. A cargo vessel, two large flying boats and a destroyer, which was one of four warships observed in the harbor, were strafed. Despite heavy anti-aircraft fire from the warships and the shore batteries, the airplane was able to complete its run and return to its base without damage. Private Budde strafed the transport during the run and manned the top turret gun until danger of intercept had passed. Private Budde’s bravery and skill on this occasion are worthy of the highest commendation.