(Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: 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 Sergeant John C. Cortez (ASN: 39038908), United States Army Air Forces, for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving as a member of the Air Crew of a B-17 Flying Fortress Bomber in the 551st Bombardment Squadron, 385th Bombardment Group (Heavy), EIGHTH Air Force, in aerial operations in the European Theater of Operations, on or about 13 February 1944. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Sergeant Cortez, 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.