The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Second Lieutenant (Air Corps) Lawrence R. Mersereau (ASN: 0-433283), United States Army Air Forces, for gallantry in action on 25 May 1942 while serving as a member of the Air Crew of a B-17 Flying Fortress Bomber in the 93d Bombardment Squadron, 19th Bombardment Group (Heavy), Far East Air Force. This combat crew departed for a bombing mission against the Japanese-held airdrome at Rabaul, New Britain. The flight arrived over the target at 27,000 feet, where it was intercepted by twelve Zeros. In spite of this interception, the bombing raid was successfully completed and large fires were started, and several Japanese planes were destroyed. In the ensuing fight, several head-on attacks were repulsed and two of the enemy planes were probably shot down. Through superior shooting and courage, the crew was able to ward off the Zeros and escape into the clouds. On the return trip, enemy planes at the Gasmata airdrome were strafed, causing severe damage to them and to other installations. A sixty mile wind blew the plane off the course and impeded its progress, so that its arrival at the Australian coast was delayed. The two inboard engines were feathered in an effort to conserve fuel. However, an insufficient amount remained to carry them to an emergency field. The pilot, realizing that a crash landing was inevitable, gave the crew an opportunity to abandon the plane, but all chose to remain with him while he made a very fine landing on extremely rough ground. This crew showed courage and resourcefulness in securing food and water, and also in making a take-off strip. A very difficult take-off was made under 1,000 feet and the plane arrived safely at the home base. This remarkable achievement exemplifies one of the finest accomplishments of the United States Army Air Corps and is in keeping with its finest traditions.