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 First Lieutenant (Air Corps) John Ernest Linwood Huse (ASN: 0-21777), United States Army Air Forces, for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving as Co-Pilot of a B-17 Flying Fortress Bomber of the 93d Bombardment Squadron, 19th Bombardment Group (Heavy), FIFTH Air Force, in aerial operations in the Southwest Pacific Theater of Operations, in on 24 December 1941. On that date, nine B-17 bombers landed at Del Monte, Philippine Islands, on an extended bombing mission, to be serviced with gas, oil, and bombs. One B-17 blew out a main wheel fire while taxiing out for a takeoff at dawn. Lieutenant Huse immediately joined the crew in changing the tire to enable the airplane to continue is mission. During the ensuing time an air raid alarm was sounded. The crew deserted the bomber but Lieutenant Huse continued to aid in changing the tire, taking cover only when enemy planes were actually strafing the airplane he was repairing. At the risk of his own life, he not only aided in saving the airplane, but also enabled the crew to successful carry out its mission. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by First Lieutenant Huse, 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.