Charles A. Fay

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Charles A. Fay, Staff Sergeant, U.S. Army Air Force, for gallantry in action while serving with the 72d Pursuit Squadron, 15th Pursuit Group, at Wheeler Field, Island of Oahu, Territory of Hawaii, on 7 December 1941. When surprised by a heavy air attack by Japanese forces on Wheeler Field and vicinity at approximately 8 a.m., Staff Sergeant Fay, with utter disregard for his personal safety proceeded to the hangar line and taxied aircraft out of the burning hangars. He was under constant enemy fire, and though twice hit by machine gun bullets, he continued with his task until completed. His initiative, presence of mind, coolness under fire, and determined action contributed to a large extent toward driving off this sudden, unexpected enemy air attack. The heroism displayed by Staff Sergeant Fay on this occasion reflects great credit upon himself and the military service.

Authority: “Heroes of Pearl Harbor”, Donald K. & Helen L. Ross