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) Walter Joseph Koraleski (AKA: Koral), Jr. (ASN: 0-660162), United States Army Air Forces, for gallantry in action as Pilot of a P-51 Mustang Fighter Aircraft of the 354th Fighter Squadron, 355th Fighter Group, EIGHTH Air Force, in action against the enemy while leading a Squadron of P-51 fighter aircraft furnishing support for bombers withdrawing from a mission over Germany, 6 March 1944. When nine (9) ME-109 planes attacked two straggling bombers, Captain Koraleski led a flight down and pressed his assault with such ferocity that the enemy were dispersed, allowing the two crippled bombers to escape. During this encounter, he personally destroyed one enemy fighter. Immediately thereafter, Captain Koraleski, with his wingman, dove his plane to tree top level in a vicious attack on two more ME-109’s. Exhibiting superior combat skill, he attacked the rear aircraft, causing it to hit the trees and cartwheel into the ground. He then pursued the remaining fighter and destroyed it. The gallantry, disregard for personal safety and skill in combat displayed by Captain Koraleski contributed in a large measure to the safe return of the bomber formation.