Distinguished Flying Cross
Korean War
Service: United States Air Force
Rank: Colonel
Batallion: 335th Fighter-Interceptor Squadron
Regiment: 4th Fighter-Interceptor Wing
Action Date: February 19, 1953

The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 2, 1926, takes pleasure in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Distinguished Flying Cross to Colonel James Kenneth Johnson (ASN: 0-4013A), United States Air Force, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as Pilot of an F-86 aircraft of the 4th Fighter-Interceptor Wing, FIFTH Air Force, in aerial combat against the enemy in Korea on 19 February 1953. While leading a flight of four F-86 aircraft near Imsan-don, Korea, Colonel Johnson sighted several enemy MiG-15 aircraft, which immediately turned away. Colonel Johnson promptly initiated pursuit, intercepting the enemy formation in their turn, and attacked the trailing aircraft. This prompted a series of fanatical evasive maneuvers by the MiG. Colonel Johnson tenaciously adhered to his swift adversary during the ensuing air battle, brilliantly outmaneuvering the enemy until, with one long accurate burst of fire, hits were scored in the engine, canopy and wing section, causing the MiG to slow down and falter momentarily. Not relenting his withering barrage, Colonel Johnson pressed his attack until a series of violent internal explosions erupted within the enemy aircraft, blowing large chunks off the right side of the fuselage. The MiG then crossed the Yalu River in a vertical dive, burning profusely and leaving behind a long trail of dense black smoke. By his action in destroying one enemy aircraft, coupled with his intense devotion to duty, Colonel Johnson has brought great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.

Legion of Merit
Korean War
Service:

United States Air Force
Rank: Colonel
Action Date: November 11, 1952 – July 24, 1953

The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, 20 July 1942, takes pleasure in presenting the Legion of Merit to Colonel James Kenneth Johnson (ASN: 0-4013A), United States Air Force, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States as Commander of the 4th Fighter-Interceptor Wing, FIFTH Air Force, from 11 November 1952 to 24 July 1953. While he commanded that wing, records were established that represented an inordinately high level of effectiveness. More enemy losses were inflicted during that period than any like period of the Korean air war. Indicative of the able leadership of Colonel Johnson was his personal destruction of ten enemy MiG type aircraft in spite of numerous and varied responsibilities assigned to him. A sound administrator, as well as a skillful air tactician, Colonel Johnson directed a cohesive and well coordinated command that carried out with exceptional success its assigned primary mission of destroying enemy aircraft. Possessing excellent perception, drive and a wealth of technical experience, Colonel Johnson directed the many aspects of training in the Wing with the result that a productive program was established. The achievements of Colonel Johnson in a position of considerable responsibility, and the manner in which the 4th Fighter-Interceptor Wing under his command, aided in dominating the enemy air force, reflected the highest credit upon himself and the military service.

Legion of Merit
Cold War
Service:  United States Air Force
Rank: Colonel
Action Date: February 16, 1957 – July 31, 1959

The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, 20 July 1942, takes pleasure in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Legion of Merit to Colonel James Kenneth Johnson (ASN: 0-4013A), United States Air Force, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States from 16 February 1957 to 31 July 1959, as Commander, 55th Strategic Reconnaissance Wing, Medium (Jet). During this period, Colonel Johnson demonstrated exceptional initiative, foresight and resourcefulness in significantly increasing the operational capability of his command. Due to his aggressive and competent leadership, aircrews under his command were brought to optimum proficiency permitting the performance of missions of exceptional importance to the United States. The exemplary judgment, personal endeavor and superior knowledge of reconnaissance operations displayed by Colonel Johnson reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.

JAMES K JOHNSON

Service

COL

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38.873965646000045, -77.06322393099998

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