The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant Colonel (Air Corps) Joseph L. Laughlin (ASN: 0-396514), United States Army Air Forces, for gallantry in action while serving as Pilot of a P-47 Thunderbolt Fighter Airplane of the 379th Fighter Squadron, 362d Fighter Group, NINTH Air Force, in action on 21 April 1944. While he was leading a group of P-47 type aircraft in an attack upon a special military objective, Lieutenant Colonel Laughlin’s aircraft was badly damaged by anti-aircraft fire. Despite the damage sustained, Lieutenant Colonel Laughlin, demonstrating outstanding courage and leadership, retained the leadership of the formation and attacked the assigned objective with great effectiveness. The extraordinary valor and tactical proficiency which he exhibited on this occasion were directly responsible for the success of the mission and reflect great credit upon his deep devotion to duty.