The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant (Air Corps) Earl R. Lazear, Jr. (ASN: 0-661779), United States Army Air Forces, for gallantry in action while serving as Pilot of a P-51 Mustang Fighter Airplane of the 486th Fighter Squadron, 352d Fighter Group, EIGHTH Air Force, while escorting heavy bombers over enemy territory, 12 September 1944. Leading a flight of P-51 fighters, Lieutenant Lazear sighted nine enemy aircraft positioning for an assault. Heedless of the odds against him, and interested only in intercepting the fighters, he led his flight of four airplanes in a vigorous attack against the enemy. When two of his starboard wing guns jammed, he continued to aggressively press home the attack until the formation was dispersed. When the engagement broke off, Lieutenant Lazear had destroyed three ME-109’s and damaged a fourth. His gallantry, zeal and cool leadership inspired his fellow flyers and were largely responsible for frustrating the attack on the bombers. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by First Lieutenant Lazear, 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.