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) Paul W. Lingrel, United States Army Air Forces, for gallantry in action while serving as Lead Bombardier in a formation of B-25 Mitchell bombers of the 447th Bombardment Squadron, 321st Bombardment Group (Medium), TWELFTH Air Force, in action on a mission to attack and important road junction and bridge at San Martino, Italy, on 22 September 1943. Throughout the route and over the target, the formation was subjected to intense, heavy and accurate anti-aircraft fire. Fragments of one shell that exploded in his bomber struck Lieutenant Lingrel in the right thigh, completely severing many veins. Disregarding shock, pain, and the imminence of death from rapid loss of blood, he gallantly and courageously stayed at his post, knowing well that the success of the mission was dependent upon his example in releasing his bombs at the proper time. Not satisfied with having acted above and beyond the normal course of duty thus far, he continued to disregard his own safety by further staying at his post after the bomb run and gallantly assisted the pilot in leading the element to safety by calling out anti-aircraft bursts, locating and warning other planes of hostile fighters, and generally assisted in keeping the damaged formation together. During this period he would allow no one to leave their post to attend him and not until the formation was out of danger did he allow the navigator to perform the first aid which was almost too late to save his life. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Second Lieutenant Lingrel, 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.