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 Staff Sergeant Jack W. Coleman (ASN: 18130626), United States Army Air Forces, for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving as Flight Engineer of a B-17 Flying Fortress Bomber of the 9th Bombardment Squadron, 7th Bombardment Group (Heavy), Far East Air Force, in aerial operations over Manado, Celebes Islands, on 16 January 1942. Sergeant Coleman was Engineer of a Flying Fortress which bombed enemy shipping at Manado. The plane lost an engine during the bombing run, but succeeded in destroying one large transport and damaging another. After leaving the target area, the bombers were attacked by 15 enemy fighters and in the running battle which lasted for 55 minutes, seven enemy aircraft were destroyed. Sergeant Coleman manned his guns throughout and was instrumental in repelling many attacks. Further damage by cannon and machine gun fire forced a landing at Kendari, where enemy planes strafed the field almost continuously for two days while repairs were being made, and three unsuccessful attempts were made to get the plane into the air. During these attempts, Sergeant Coleman operated the top turret guns and was instrumental in keeping the enemy aircraft at a higher altitude. Upon being informed of enemy infiltration in the Kendari area, the crew destroyed the plane to prevent its seizure. Sergeant Coleman’s determination and courage in the face of the enemy are worthy of the highest commendation. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Staff Sergeant Coleman, 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.