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 Colonel (General Staff Corps) Frank Sayles Bowen, Jr. (ASN: 0-16434), United States Army, for gallantry in while serving as G-3 (Operations Officer), in action against the enemy at Biak Island, Southwest Pacific Area, on 21 and 22 June 1944. When aerial reconnaissance was necessary to clarify the tactical situation, Colonel Bowen volunteered for the hazardous flights, despite knowledge that planes had previously met with heavy anti-aircraft fire in that area. Despite 20-mm. and machine gun fire, Colonel Bowen directed his pilot to fly low directly over the area. The valuable information gathered in these daring flights permitted him to give his Commanding Officer a clear, accurate and complete report of subsequent tactical decisions. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Colonel Bowen, 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.