Headquarters, 8th Air Force, General Orders No. 217 (November 30, 1943)
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 Joseph K. Kocher (ASN: 13068717), United States Army Air Forces, for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving as a Ball Turret Gunner of a B-17 Flying Fortress Bomber of EIGHTH Air Force, on a bombing mission over enemy-occupied Europe on 24 August 1943. Just after completing the bombing run, his aircraft was forced to leave the formation and was immediately attacked by enemy fighters. When the ball turret became inoperative, Sergeant Kocher left his position to assist his comrades. Shortly afterwards, he was wounded by an exploding 20-mm. cannon shell. In spite of this, Sergeant Kocher courageously manned the right waist gun and materially aided in fighting off persistent attacks by enemy planes. The gallantry, skill and devotion to duty displayed by Sergeant Kocher reflect highest credit upon himself and the armed forces of the United States.