The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Second Lieutenant (Air Corps) Albert J. Hobday (ASN: 0-442165), United States Army Air Forces, for gallantry in action while serving with the 435th Bombardment Squadron (Heavy), FIFTH Air Force, in action over Lae Airdrome, New Guinea, on 3 July 1942. Lieutenant Hobday was the Navigator on a B-17E type aircraft engaged in a bombing mission against the enemy airdrome at Lae. Despite unfavorable weather conditions, he guided the plane over the target area so accurately that only one run was necessary. After leaving the target, the plane was attacked by twelve Zero fighters. Ten frontal attacks, five side attacks and three attacks from below were made on the bomber. During the running battle which lasted forty-five minutes, Lieutenant Hobday manned the forward machine gun. One enemy plane was shot down and three others were badly damaged. Lieutenant Hobday’s ability and courage in the face of enemy attacks are in accord with the finest traditions of the United State Army Air Corps.