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The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star to Second Lieutenant (Air Corps) Thomas P. Talley (ASN: 0-405948), United States Army Air Forces, for gallantry in action while serving as Pilot of a B-25 Mitchell Bomber of the 89th Bombardment Squadron, 3d Bombardment Group (Light), FIFTH Air Force, in action over Lae, New Guinea, on 25 May 1942. This Officer participated in a raid on the Japanese airdrome at Lae, New Guinea. Although intercepted by enemy pursuit, he fought his way over the target and made a very successful low altitude attack. The enemy opposition increased and upon completion of the bombing a severe running fight ensued between our formation and approximately 25 Zero planes. In this engagement several Japanese fighters were shot down. Lieutenant Talley’s plane was badly damaged, having the hydraulic system and fuel lines shot away, but despite this, he landed it without injury to the crew. The courage and determination shown by Lieutenant Talley, to complete a mission in the face of tremendous handicaps, are in keeping with the highest traditions of the Army Air Corps and are worthy of the finest traditions.

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Army Air Forces

    Rank:

    Second Lieutenant (Air Corps)

    Batallion:

    89th Bombardment Squadron

    Regiment:

    3d Bombardment Group (L)

    Division:

    Far East Air Force

    Action Date:

    April 10 – 14, 1942
    Headquarters, Allied Air Forces in the Southwest Pacific Area, General Orders No. 18 (June 6, 1942)

    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) Thomas P. Talley (ASN: 0-405948), United States Army Air Forces, for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a B-25 Mitchell Bomber of the 89th Bombardment Squadron, 3d Bombardment Group (Light), Far East Air Force, in aerial operations in the Southwest Pacific Theater of Operations, in from 10 to 14 April 1942. Second Lieutenant Talley participated in a flying expedition from Australia to the Philippine Islands, in four attacks against the enemy. During this mission over 4,000 miles of open sea were covered and the operations resulted in the destruction of many enemy transports, airplanes, and ground installations. The daring, determination and perseverance of Second Lieutenant Talley was evident throughout the entire mission. He was filled with zeal to inflict the most damage on the enemy, and uncomplainingly endured hardships to accomplish this end. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Second Lieutenant Talley, 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.