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) Frederick D. Chapin (ASN: 0-676424), United States Army Air Forces, for gallantry in action against the enemy as a member of the EIGHTH Air Force, while on a heavy bombardment mission over Europe, 8 August 1944. On approaching the target, a burst of flak painfully wounded Lieutenant Chapin and damaged his bombsight equipment. Realizing the responsibility of his assignment as Lead Bombardier, he refused first aid and remained at his position, releasing his bombs accurately on the target. It was not until after he had closed the bomb-bay doors that Lieutenant Chapin agreed to submit to treatment for his wounds. His courage, disregard for personal safety, and devotion to duty were in a large measure responsible for the success of the mission. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by First Lieutenant Chapin, 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.