Navy Federal Credit Union

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 Samuel Allen (AFSN: FR-83366), United States Air Force, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States as Commander, 4450th Tactical Group, Nellis Air Force Base, Nevada, from 2 April 1982 to 15 June 1984. Colonel Allen’s leadership, exemplary foresight and ceaseless efforts were responsible for building the 4450th Tactical Group into one of the most effective specialized unit6s within Tactical Air Command. His programs and dynamic leadership have led to enhanced mission capabilities that will play a major role in the military capability of the nation for some time to come. The superior initiative, outstanding leadership and personal endeavor displayed by Colonel Allen reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.

Awards Received

  • Legion of Merit

    Service:

    United States Air Force

    Rank:

    Brigadier General

    Action Date:

    June 6, 1986 – January 27, 1988

    The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, 20 July 1942, takes pleasure in presenting a Second Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Third Award of the Legion of Merit to Brigadier General James Samuel Allen (AFSN: FR-83366), United States Air Force, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States as Military Assistant to the Secretary of the Air Force, Office of the Secretary of the Air Force, the Pentagon, Washington, District of Columbia, from 6 June 1986 to 27 January 1988. During this period, the forceful leadership, tireless effort, and outstanding dedication of General Allen were instrumental in furthering the effectiveness of Air Force relations with the Office of the President, members of Congress, and the Office of the Secretary of Defense. Employing considerable professionalism and talent, General Allen’s multifaceted knowledge of Air Force doctrine and weapons systems, sensitive insight on international politico-military affairs, and skillful management style were essential in assisting the Secretary of the Air Force structure the robust Air Force that will lead us into the 21st Century. The singularly distinctive accomplishments of General Allen and his dedicated contributions in the service of his country reflect the highest credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Air Force

    Rank:

    First Lieutenant

    Batallion:

    21st Tactical Air Support Squadron

    Division:

    Nha Trang Air Base, Vietnam

    Action Date:

    March 23, 1967

    Headquarters, 7th Air Force, Special Orders G-975 (July 8, 1967)

    The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 8, 1918 (amended by act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant James Samuel Allen (AFSN: FR-83366), United States Air Force, for gallantry in connection with military operations against an opposing armed force as a Forward Air Controller with the 21st Tactical Air Support Squadron, Nha Trang Air Base, Vietnam, PACIFIC Air Force, while directing fighter aircraft strikes near Pleiku, Republic of Vietnam, on 23 March 1967. On that date, Lieutenant Allen was flying his O-1 Bird Dog aircraft in support of friendly forces engaged by a larger hostile force. Lieutenant Allen’s timely and explicit instructions to the fighter pilots enabled them to deliver their ordnance with extreme accuracy under adverse conditions in close proximity to the friendly forces. Although he received battle damage to his aircraft, Lieutenant Allen remained in the target area making low passes over automatic weapon positions to draw their fire and expose them to attacks from the fighter aircraft. Lieutenant Allen, by his outstanding heroism, saved the lives of many friendly troops, risking his own life to protect theirs. By his gallantry and devotion to duty, Lieutenant Allen has reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.

  • Legion of Merit

    Service:

    United States Air Force

    Rank:

    Colonel

    Action Date:

    June 15, 1979 – March 31, 1982

    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 Samuel Allen (AFSN: FR-83366), United States Air Force, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States as the Assistant Chief and Chief of the Europe-North Atlantic Treaty Organization Division; a the Assistant Deputy Director for Force Development; and as the Deputy Assistant Director for Joint and National Security Council Matters, Directorate of Plans, Deputy Chief of Staff/Plans and Operations, Headquarters United States Air Force from 15 June 1979 to 31 March 1982. In these important positions the keen insight, judgment and dedicated efforts of Colonel Allen were significantly displayed in the analyses and advice provided on major political/military issues of national significance. His clear counsel contributed immeasurably to the timely and efficient functioning of the Chief of Staff, United States Air Force as a member of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and to the security of the United States. The singularly distinctive accomplishments of Colonel Allen and his dedicated contributions in the service of his country reflect the highest credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.

  • Air Force Distinguished Service Medal

    Service:

    United States Air Force

    Rank:

    Brigadier General

    Action Date:

    1989 – 1992

    (Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: Brigadier General James Samuel Allen (AFSN: FR-83366), United States Air Force, was awarded the Air Force Distinguished Service Medal for exceptionally meritorious and distinguished service in a position of great responsibility to the Government of the United States, culminating as Assistant Chief of Staff for Operations, Headquarters Allied Forces Central Europe, from 1989 to 1992. The singularly distinctive accomplishments of General Allen culminate a long and distinguished career in the service of his country and his dedicated contributions reflect the highest credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.

  • Distinguished Flying Cross

    Service:

    United States Air Force

    Rank:

    First Lieutenant

    Batallion:

    21st Tactical Air Support Squadron

    Division:

    Nha Trang Air Base, Vietnam

    Action Date:

    November 6, 1966

    Headquarters, Pacific Air Force, Special Orders G-332 (March 4, 1967)

    The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 2, 1926, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross with Combat “V” to First Lieutenant James Samuel Allen (AFSN: FR-83366), United States Air Force, for heroism while participating in aerial flight as an F-100 pilot of the 21st Tactical Air Support Squadron, Nha Trang Air Base, Vietnam, PACIFIC Air Force, on 6 November 1966. On that date, Lieutenant Allen flew two missions supporting elements of the 1st Infantry Division that were in heavy contact with hostile ground forces near Tay Ninh, as part of Operation ATTLEBORO. Through his courageous and determined efforts on these missions, in which he spent a total of 48 minutes making vulnerable low altitude ordnance deliveries in the face of intense, visible hostile fire, Lieutenant Allen turned a potential Viet Cong victory into a bitter defeat. The outstanding heroism and selfless devotion to duty displayed by Lieutenant Allen reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.