The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Major James Walter Little (AFSN: 0-8099A), United States Air Force, for gallantry in connection with military operations against an opposing armed force while serving as Pilot of an F-82 Twin Mustang Fighter Airplane of the 339th Fighter-Interceptor Squadron (All Weather), 8th Fighter-Interceptor Group, FIFTH Air Force, in action in Korea, on 27 June 1950. Major Little distinguished himself in a extraordinary meritorious manner by displaying outstanding leadership, judgment and gallantry of a high degree while leading an escort mission of F-82 aircraft over Kimpo Airdrome, in Korea on 27 June 1950. Major Little led his flight on a attack against a flight of enemy LA-7 aircraft which were attacking and scoring hits on four (4) C-54 transports evacuating civil service employees and military dependents from Korea. After the enemy aircraft were destroyed, one (1) by Major Little, he assembled the transports with his flight and led them to their destination in Japan in spite of a fire which broke out in the cockpit of his aircraft. His ability and skill, and willingness to make the decision to fire the first shot from American guns, brought great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.