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) Harry Cecil Porter (ASN: 0-18746), United States Army Air Forces, for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving as Ordnance Officer with the V Interceptor Command, Far East Air Force, in aerial operations at Bataan, Philippine Islands, on 21 December 1941. During an inspection of aviation ordnance activities, enemy dive bombers succeeded in setting fire to a number of train cars loaded with ammunition and gasoline. With complete disregard for his own safety, Major Porter supervised and assisted in saving a large quantity of these supplies, although exploding artillery shells and rifle ammunition presented a constant hazard. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Major Porter, 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.