The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain John D. Monaghan (AFSN: AO-827248), United States Air Force, for gallantry in action against an enemy as Pilot of a Reconnaissance Photo Jet of the 8th Tactical Reconnaissance Squadron (redesignated 15th Tactical Reconnaissance Squadron Photo Jet), 543d Tactical Support Group, FIFTH Air Force. On 3 February 1951, Captain Monaghan took off in an unarmed RF-80 type aircraft and flew unescorted to his assigned target area deep in enemy-held territory. His mission required that he make nine photographic runs over targets in the immediate vicinity of two enemy jet fighter bases near the city of Sinuiju, North Korea. After completing several photographic runs, Captain Monaghan noticed approximate 15 enemy jet fighters circling above him. Fully aware that an attack was imminent, he skillfully maneuvered his aircraft to keep the enemy out of firing position while he completed the important photographic work. As Captain Monaghan broke away from his last target, several of the enemy aircraft started their attack. In the ensuing engagement, the enemy made numerous firing passes, inflicting major damage on Captain Monaghan’s aircraft. One 37 mm shell struck a tip tank and another seriously damaged the left wing. Through his skill as a pilot and knowledge of enemy capabilities, Captain Monaghan evaded the enemy and returned his badly damaged aircraft to home base. The photographs obtained by Captain Monaghan proved to be of great value to the United Nations forces. Captain Monaghan’s gallantry and devotion to duty reflected great credit upon himself, the FAR EAST Air Forces, and the United States Air Force.