The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain (Air Corps) Gustave Marinius Heiss, Jr. (ASN: 0-392820), United States Army Air Forces, for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a B-25 Mitchell Bomber of the 13th Bombardment Squadron, 3d Bombardment Group (Light), Far East Air Force, in aerial operations in the Southwest Pacific Theater of Operations, in from 10 to 14 April 1942. Captain Heiss participated in a flying expedition from Australia to the Philippine Islands, in four attacks against the enemy. During this mission over 4,000 miles of open sea were covered and the operations resulted in the destruction of many enemy transports, airplanes, and ground installations. The daring, determination and perseverance of Captain Heiss was evident throughout the entire mission. He was filled with zeal to inflict the most damage on the enemy, and uncomplainingly endured hardships to accomplish this end. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Captain Heiss, 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.