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 Private First Class Virgil E. Haifley (ASN: 16017423), United States Army Air Forces, for gallantry in action while serving with the 14th bombardment Squadron, 7th Bombardment Group (Heavy), Far East Air Forces, in action on 2 May 1942, near Bacolod, Mindanao, Philippine Islands. On withdrawal of the infantry forces, Private Haifley remained behind alone, engaging the invaders in an attempt to slow the hostile advance and to extricate stragglers from the enemy hold. Private Haifley remained in position so long that he was surrounded and compelled to return from within the enemy lines at night. Private First Class Haifley’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, his unit, and the United States Army.