The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Staff Sergeant [then Sergeant] Anthony W. Mensen (ASN: 36120906), United States Army Air Forces, for gallantry in action while participating in aerial flight on 25 December 1944 while serving as a Lead Radio-Gunner of a B-26 Marauder Bomber of the 322d Bombardment Group (Heavy), NINTH Air Force. Staff Sergeant Mensen was critically wounded by accurate anti-aircraft fire and displaying unusual determination and devotion to duty he persisted in his duties until his critically dangerous condition exhausted his attempts to continue his radio operator’s functions. When an emergency landing was contemplated because of his condition, Staff Sergeant Mensen insisted that the return to home base be completed. The disregard for personal safety which Staff Sergeant Mensen evidenced on this occasion although painfully wounded, reflects great distinction upon himself, his organization and the Army Air Forces.