Navy Federal Credit Union

James Mangan graduated from the Citadel in Charleston, South Carolina. He received a Silver Star for actions during the first American counteroffensive in the Pacific in April 1942, a week before the Doolittle Raid on Japan. Seven Distinguished Service Crosses were awarded to Air Crews of B-27 Flying Fortresses of the 19th Bombardment Group (H) and ten B-25 Mitchell Bombers of the 3d Bombardment Group (L), and more than 35 Silver Stars were awarded for the four-day operation. In 1963 he received a master’s degree in international affairs from George Washington University.

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Army Air Forces

    Rank:

    First Lieutenant (Air Corps)

    Regiment:

    3d Bombardment Group (L)

    Division:

    Far East Air Force

    Action Date:

    April 10 – 14, 1942

    Headquarters, Allied Air Forces in the Southwest Pacific Area, General Orders No. 18 (June 6, 1942)

    The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant (Air Corps) James Harrison Mangan (ASN: 0-403821), United States Army Air Forces, for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving as Co-Pilot of a B-25 Mitchell Bomber of the 3d Bombardment Group (Light), Far East Air Force, in aerial operations in the Southwest Pacific Theater of Operations, in from 10 to 14 April 1942. First Lieutenant Mangan participated in a flying expedition from Australia to the Philippine Islands, in four attacks against the enemy. During this mission over 4,000 miles of open sea were covered and the operations resulted in the destruction of many enemy transports, airplanes, and ground installations. The daring, determination and perseverance of First Lieutenant Mangan was evident throughout the entire mission. He was filled with zeal to inflict the most damage on the enemy, and uncomplainingly endured hardships to accomplish this end. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by First Lieutenant Mangan, 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.