The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Sergeant Harvey D. Joyner (ASN: 6887357), United States Army Air Forces, for gallantry in action while serving as a member of the Air Crew of a B-17 Flying Fortress Bomber in the 435th Bombardment Squadron, 19th Bombardment Group (Heavy), Far East Air Force, in aerial operations in the Southwest Pacific Area, over Buna, New Guinea, on 25 July 1942. Sergeant Joyner was a Side Gunner on a B-17E type aircraft which was on a patrol and reconnaissance mission over Buna. The plane was attacked by fifteen Zeros, and in a running fight which lasted for forty-five minutes, three enemy planes were shot down and several others were damaged. The determination and courage shown by Sergeant Joyner in the face of heavy cannon and machine gun fire aided considerably in defeating the enemy in this encounter. His 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 and the United States Army Air Forces.