The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant (Air Corps) Joseph F. Moore (ASN: 0-429841), United States Army Air Forces, for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a Fighter Airplane with the Far East Air Force, while participating in an attack on an enemy seaplane base in the South Pacific Ara, on 29 March 1943. Due to operational difficulties and extremely bad weather, only 6 of 16 fighter airplanes managed to reach the target area, the rest being compelled to return to their bases. As pilot of one of the fighters that reached the target, Lieutenant Moore participated in the attack which resulted in the destruction of six enemy float airplanes on the water and caused one other to catch fire. This attack was made despite extremely intense anti-aircraft fire from ground installations. On the return trip an enemy destroyer was sighted, and without hesitation Lieutenant Moore accompanied the flight in pressing home an attack on the destroyer making four passes at this objective. The intensity of this attack resulted in the sinking of the enemy ship. The courage and skill displayed by Lieutenant Moore contributed directly to the achievements accomplished by the flight. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by First Lieutenant Moore, 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.