LBJ's Silver Star: The Mission That Never Was-- Part 1

From Bizland.com

Lt. Cmdr. Lyndon B. Johnson, Texas Congressman temporarily serving in the U.S. Navy, received the nation's third highest combat decoration for a 1942 fact-finding mission.  He was so proud of that Silver Star that he wore a silver lapel pin for the rest of his life.

But, did he really deserve it?

It was issued by General Douglas MacArthur's chief of staff and reads in part: "While on a  mission obtaining information in the Southwest Pacific Area, Lt.Cmdr. Johnson, in order to obtain personal knowledge of combat conditions, volunteered as an observer on a hazardous aerial combat mission over hostile positions in New Guinea.  (The plane was piloted by Robert R. Hatch of Goldsboro, N.C.)

"As our planes neared the target area, they were intercepted by eight hostile fighters.  When, at this time, the plane in which Lt.Cmdr. Johnson was an observer developed mechanical trouble and was forced to turn back alone, presenting a favorable target to the enemy fighters, he evidenced coolness in spite of the hazard involved."

More to Come.  --GreGen