(Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: 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 (Air Corps) John Aitken, Jr. (ASN: 0-438002), United States Army Air Forces, for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a Fighter Airplane of the 503d Fighter Squadron, 339th Fighter Group, EIGHTH Air Force, in aerial operations in the European Theater of Operations during World War II. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Major Aitken, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army Air Forces.