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 [then First Lieutenant] John E. Taylor, Jr. (AFSN: AO-829777), United States Air Force, for gallantry in action against an enemy as Pilot of an F-86 Sabrejet Fighter-Bomber of the 39th Fighter-Interceptor Squadron, 39th Fighter-Interceptor Squadron, FIFTH Air Force, on 3 September 1951. While leading his flight on a close support mission over United Nations ground troops, Captain Taylor’s right napalm tank was hit and set on fire by enemy anti-aircraft fire. With disregard for his personal safety, Captain Taylor refused to drop the flaming napalm tank over friendly troops and positioned himself for an assault on enemy troops nearby, scoring a direct hit. Even though his aircraft’s wing was severely burned, Captain Taylor pressed successive attacks on the Communist enemy with rockets and machine guns. Captain Taylor, by his gallant deed, saved the lives of many United Nations Forces. By his courage and bravery, Captain Taylor reflected great credit upon himself, the FAR EAST Air Forces, and the United States Air Force.