The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Second Lieutenant (Air Corps) John W. Reed, IV (ASN: 0-691542), United States Army Air Forces, for gallantry in action while serving as Pilot of a B-24 Liberator Bomber of the 577th Bombardment Squadron, 392d Bombardment Group (Heavy), EIGHTH Air Force, in action on a bombardment mission over Germany on 29 April 1944. A large force of ME-109’s made a vicious attack as the formation approached the target and Lieutenant Reed’s aircraft sustained severe damage. Two engines were disabled, the fuel and hydraulic lines punctured, and the left rudder and stabilizers badly torn by cannon fire. Ordering the bomb load to be released, Lieutenant Reed abandoned the formation and started the long return journey alone. Though the crippled bomber was exceedingly difficult to control, he flew it back to England. Shortly after crossing the English coast, he was informed that the bomb-bay section was choked with gasoline fumes from the leading fuel lines. Rather than risk the lives of his crew from an explosion which could be caused by a chance spark on landing, Lieutenant Reed ordered the entire crew to bail out. When they had all abandoned the stricken plane, he headed for the coast where the aircraft could crash harmlessly into the sea. Before he was able to bail out the aircraft crashed, killing Lieutenant Reed. His gallantry, flying skill, and devotion to duty and his comrades undoubtedly saved the lives of his crew.