Leroy Eugene 'Tex' Harris

Captain, U. S. Navy

Silver Star

GENERAL ORDERS:
Commander 2d Carrier Task Force: Serial 0472 (December 18, 1944)
CITATION:
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant Commander Leroy Eugene Harris (NSN: 0-82487), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Pilot and Division Leader in Fighting Squadron TWO (VF-2), attached to the U.S.S. HORNET (CV-12), in action against enemy Japanese forces in the vicinity of the Philippine Islands, 21 September 1944.
Flying escort for a bombing and strafing mission against enemy shipping, Lieutenant Commander Harris led a coordinated attack against intercepting enemy planes, personally shooting down one and probably a second while his flight accounted for a total of ten shot down and six more probably destroyed.
Although out of ammunition when enemy planes attacked on the return flight, he dove his plane into a formidable three-plane group which was harassing his second section leader and succeeded in repulsing the opposing aircraft.
By his initiative and devotion to duty, Lieutenant Commander Harris contributed materially to the success of the mission and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

GENERAL ORDERS:
CITATION:
(Citation Needed) - SYNOPSIS: Lieutenant Commander Leroy Eugene Harris (NSN: 0-82487), United States Navy, was awarded a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy during World War II. His gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, 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 Naval Service.