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) Barrie Spilman Davis (ASN: 0-811865), United States Army Air Forces, for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving as a Pilot a P-51 Fighter Airplane of the 317th Fighter Squadron, 325th Fighter Group, FIFTEENTH Air Force in the Mediterranean Theater of Action on 22 August 1944. On that date, Lieutenant Davis led his flight as escort to heavy bombers attacking strategic enemy installations in Germany. Leaving the target area, he remained with the bombers to afford cover for crippled aircraft after the time designated to leave them. En route to base the crippled ships were aggressively attacked by enemy fighters. In the ensuing engagement, displaying outstanding combat proficiency, though engaged by superior numbers of enemy ships, Lieutenant Davis successfully repulsed all attacks and successfully destroyed two hostile fighters. Through his conspicuous gallantry in remaining with the bombers, he enabled them to complete their mission and return safely to base. By his outstanding courage, leadership and devotion to duty, as evidenced throughout over seventy (70) successful missions against the enemy, and six enemy aircraft destroyed in aerial flight, Lieutenant Davis has reflected great credit upon himself and the Armed Forces of the United States of America.