The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Major (Air Corps), [then First Lieutenant and Captain] Richard A. Rann (ASN: 0-886030), United States Army Air Forces, for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a Fighter Airplane of the EIGHTH Air Force, while participating in fighter operations over Continental Europe from 25 November 1943 to 25 February 1945. Originally assigned to the group as a replacement pilot, Major Rann successively served as Wing Pilot, Element Leader, Operations Officer, and Squadron Commander. Leading his Squadron on a “flak busting” mission in support of the Arnheim airborne invasion, Major Rann neutralized six gun emplacements while his Squadron destroyed forty-two installations. On 26 November 1944, he again demonstrated gallantry of the highest order by frustrating an interception attack of a vastly superior force of enemy fighters. The leadership, courage, and devotion to duty exhibited by Major Rann throughout this entire period were a constant source of inspiration to all serving with him. The courage, flying skill, and unyielding fighting spirit displayed by Major Rann are in keeping with the finest traditions of the Army Air Forces.