The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Major (Air Corps) Herschel Harper Green (ASN: 0-659696), United States Army Air Forces, for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a P-47 Thunderbolt Fighter Airplane of the 317th Fighter Squadron, 325th Fighter Group, FIFTEENTH Air Force, leading a fighter sweep and escort mission over enemy landing grounds in northern Italy on 18 March 1944. Major Green brought his Group to the rendezvous with the B-17’s in time to engage a contingent of over fifty enemy fighters preparing to attack the bomber formation. In the ensuing engagement, Major Green unhesitatingly left the security of his close formation to give assistance to another P-47 which was being successfully attacked by enemy aircraft. Major Green’s gallant and vigorous attack, in which he completely disregarded his own safety, was instrumental in saving the life and plane of a fellow pilot. While providing protection to the attacked P-47, Major Green destroyed one enemy fighter, thereby contributing to his impressive record of thirteen confirmed victories. By his conspicuous gallantry, superior flying skill and determination in protecting a fellow pilot, Major Green has upheld the highest traditions of the Military Service and has reflected great credit upon himself and the Armed Forces of the United States of America.