Posthumous WWII U.S. Navy Carrier Pilot Silver Star, Killed in Action at Casablanca in 1942

The Silver Star is on a full wrap brooch suspension, with the rear suspension bearing the mark of Bailey, Banks & Biddle of Philadelphia. The Silver Star is officially hand engraved “Ensign Charles J. Duffy USNR Nov. 8 – 11, 1942. The decoration shows wear to the gilt finish, but overall it is in very good condition. The medal is accompanied by a binder containing several pages of research on Ensign Duffy, as well as a copy of a photograph of Duffy in civilian clothing with his dog. Ensign Duffy’s Silver Star citation reads as follows:

“The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Ensign Charles John Duffy, United States Navy, for gallantry in action during the occupation of French Morocco, 8 to 11 November 1942. Participating in a hazardous dive-bombing mission over Casablanca Harbor, Ensign Duffy, with superb flying skill, scored a direct hit on a hostile cruiser with a 500-pound bomb. 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.”.