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The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star to Colonel (Air Corps) John Dale Ryan (AFSN: AO-21117/ASN: 0-21117), United States Army Air Forces, for gallantry in action as Pilot of a B-17 Flying Fortress Bomber of the 2d Bombardment Group, FIFTEENTH Air Force. On 28 February 1945, Colonel Ryan led a group formation on a bombing mission against a vital enemy railroad bridge in Italy. Over the target, intense, heavy and accurate enemy anti-aircraft fire was encountered which severely damaged his aircraft, killed two crew members, wounded four others and seriously wounded Colonel Ryan. Despite intense pain, shock and loss of blood, displaying outstanding courage and fortitude, Colonel Ryan maintained control of his almost un-airworthy aircraft and skillfully maneuvered his entire formation through continued heavy enemy fire for a highly successful bombing run. Under his superior leadership the bombs from his entire group were concentrated in the target area, inflicting grave damage to this vital link in the enemy’s lines of communications. Leaving the objective his aircraft was forced to drop from the protective formation and set course for base alone. Displaying outstanding professional skill and determination, Colonel Ryan brought his crippled plane through for a safe landing at an emergency field. By his conspicuous courage, airmanship and devotion to duty, as evidenced throughout 42 successful missions against the enemy, Colonel Ryan has reflected great credit upon himself and the Armed Forces of the United States of America.

Awards Received

  • Distinguished Flying Cross

    Service:

    United States Army Air Forces

    Rank:

    Lieutenant Colonel (Air Corps)

    Division:

    15th Air Force

    Action Date:

    May 10, 1944

    The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 2, 1926, takes pleasure in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Distinguished Flying Cross to Lieutenant Colonel (Air Corps) John Dale Ryan (AFSN: AO-21117/ASN: 0-21117), United States Army Air Forces, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight as Pilot of a B-17 type aircraft of the FIFTEENTH Air Force. On 10 May 1944, Lieutenant Colonel Ryan led his group on an important bombing mission against a heavily defended enemy aircraft factory in Austria. Severe and adverse weather conditions were encountered en route to the target, through which Lieutenant Colonel Ryan brought his entire formation directly to the target. Despite intense and accurate enemy anti-aircraft fire, he led the group over the objective for a highly successful bombing run completely destroying the target. On the return trip he again brought his formation through adverse weather conditions for a safe landing at base without loss. By his outstanding leadership, sound judgment and devotion to duty, together with his exceptional professional skill as evidenced throughout over twenty-one successful missions against the enemy, Lieutenant Colonel Ryan has reflected great credit upon himself and the Armed Forces of the United States of America.

  • Air Force Distinguished Service Medal

    Service:

    United States Air Force

    Rank:

    General

    Action Date:

    August 1, 1969 – January 20, 1973
    Department of the Air Force, Special Order GB-50 (January 20, 1973)

    The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting a Third Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster (in addition to a previously awarded Army Design Air Force Distinguished Service Medal) in lieu of a Fifth Award of the Air Force Distinguished Service Medal to General John Dale Ryan (AFSN: AO-21117/ASN: 0-21117), United States Air Force, for exceptionally meritorious and distinguished service in a position of great responsibility to the Government of the United States. General Ryan distinguished himself as Chief of Staff, United States Air Force, from 1 August 1969 to 20 January 1973. In this highly important position, General Ryan consistently demonstrated outstanding leadership, imagination, and initiative in responding to unprecedented demands placed on the Air Force in the support of national policy and strategy. In an age of continuing dynamic advances in aerospace, General Ryan’s extensive knowledge, managerial skill, and devotion to duty greatly enhanced the capability of the Air Force and Department of Defense in meeting expanding military commitments. His broad military background and foresight in the leadership of the United States Air Force contributed significantly to effective Air Force participation in the Southeast Asia conflict and other military operations of national and international significance. The singularly distinctive accomplishments of General Ryan reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.

  • Legion of Merit

    Service:

    United States Air Force

    Rank:

    Brigadier General

    Action Date:

    September 1, 1953 – April 28, 1956

    The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, 20 July 1942, takes pleasure in presenting the Legion of Merit to Brigadier General John Dale Ryan (AFSN: AO-21117/ASN: 0-21117), United States Air Force, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States from 1 September 1953 to 28 April 1956, as Commander, 19th Air Division, Carswell Air Force Base, Texas. Through his exemplary knowledge and leadership, the highest degree of readiness attained by the 19th Air Division, has significantly increased the combat capability of the United States Air Force in its role as a deterrent to hostile aggression. During his tenure as Commander, General Ryan’s organization established an enviable record in flying safety, receiving the Base-Of-The-Year flying safety trophy for the second straight year (1954-55), after flying some 50,000 hours without a major or minor accident. In addition to these accomplishments, General Ryan developed and maintained a remarkable record of Air Force-Community Relations in the area adjacent to Carswell Air Force Base, Texas. By his outstanding service in these endeavors, General Ryan has reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.

  • Air Force Distinguished Service Medal

    Service:

    United States Air Force

    Rank:

    General

    Action Date:

    February 1, 1967 – July 31, 1968

    The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster (in addition to a previously awarded Army Design Air Force Distinguished Service Medal) in lieu of a Third Award of the Air Force Distinguished Service Medal to General John Dale Ryan (AFSN: AO-21117/ASN: 0-21117), United States Air Force, for exceptionally meritorious and distinguished service in a position of great responsibility to the Government of the United States as Commander in Chief, Pacific Air Forces, from 1 February 1967 to 31 July 1968. During this period, General Ryan’s astute military judgment, professional knowledge, and diplomacy contributed significantly to the accomplishment of major United States Objectives in the Pacific area. Under General Ryan’s forceful leadership and direction, the combat units of the Pacific Air Forces have established an enviable combat record which has contributed directly to the fulfillment of United States objectives in the Republic of Vietnam. The singularly distinctive accomplishments of General Ryan reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.

  • Air Force Distinguished Service Medal

    Service:

    United States Air Force

    Rank:

    Lieutenant General

    Action Date:

    July 1, 1961 – July 31, 1963
    Department of the Air Force, General Orders No. G-138 (1963)

    The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Air Force Distinguished Service Medal (Army Design) to Lieutenant General John Dale Ryan (AFSN: AO-21117/ASN: 0-21117), United States Air Force, for exceptionally meritorious and distinguished service in a position of great responsibility to the Government of the United States as Commander, SECOND Air Force, Strategic Air Command, from 1 July 1961 to 31 July 1963. In this important assignment, the forceful leadership, and dedicated efforts of General Ryan resulted in all weapons systems of his command being maintained in constant readiness to perform operational commitments on a global basis. General Ryan’s professional skill in expediting the buildup of operational missile squadrons, and in integrating the B-58 weapons system into the operational weapons inventory concurrently with its development and testing, contributed immeasurably to the Strategic Air Command’s deterrent posture, and to the security of the United States. The singularly distinctive accomplishments of Lieutenant General Ryan reflect the highest credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.

  • Distinguished Flying Cross

    Service:

    United States Army Air Forces

    Rank:

    Lieutenant Colonel (Air Corps)

    Division:

    15th Air Force

    Action Date:

    March 22, 1944
    Headquarters, 15th Air Force, General Orders No. 157 (April 1, 1944)

    The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 2, 1926, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Lieutenant Colonel (Air Corps) John Dale Ryan (AFSN: AO-21117/ASN: 0-21117), United States Army Air Forces, for extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight . On 22 March 1944, Lieutenant Colonel Ryan was co-pilot in the lead airplane of a group of B-17’s of the FIFTEENTH Air Force, which attacked an important enemy rail center in northern Italy. While on a bombing run, with three engines constantly losing power and thereby making the aircraft extremely difficult to control, Lieutenant Colonel Ryan, flying from the co-pilot’s seat, maintained the aircraft in perfect control towards the target. Approximately ten seconds before bombs away, a flak burst penetrated the cockpit, ignited three flares and knocked out the oxygen system on the pilot’s side of the plane. With flames rapidly spreading and the cockpit completely filled with smoke, Lieutenant Colonel Ryan maintained a steady course until the bombs were dropped, which resulted in great destruction to the enemy. The pilot was forced to leave the cockpit and retired to the radio room while other members of the crew finally succeeded in putting out the fire. Without assistance, Lieutenant Colonel Ryan led his group off the target and safely home through adverse weather. By his exceptional leadership and cool judgment, Lieutenant Colonel Ryan was largely responsible for the success of the mission and the destruction of the enemy installations. By his outstanding skill and courage in the face of extreme danger, he has reflected great credit upon himself and the Armed Forces of the United States of America.

  • Air Force Distinguished Service Medal

    Service:

    United States Air Force

    Rank:

    General

    Action Date:

    December 1, 1964 – January 31, 1967
    Department of the Air Force, General Orders No. G-195 (1967)

    The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Air Force Distinguished Service Medal (Second Award) to General John Dale Ryan (AFSN: AO-21117/ASN: 0-21117), United States Air Force, for exceptionally meritorious and distinguished service in a position of great responsibility to the Government of the United States as Commander in Chief, Strategic Air Command, and concurrently as Director, Joint Strategic Planning Staff, Joint Chiefs of Staff, from 1 December 1964 to 31 January 1967. During this period, General Ryan’s forceful leadership and outstanding and dedicated efforts were significantly displayed in strategic operations of a world wide nature. His exemplary foresight materially enhanced the security of our nation and our efforts toward world peace. General Ryan’s outstanding achievements in these important assignments are in keeping with the highest standards of performance and traditions of the military service, and reflect favorably upon himself and the United States Air Force.

  • Air Force Distinguished Service Medal

    Service:

    United States Air Force

    Rank:

    General

    Action Date:

    August 1, 1968 – July 31, 1969

    The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting a Second Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster (in addition to a previously awarded Army Design Air Force Distinguished Service Medal) in lieu of a Fourth Award of the Air Force Distinguished Service Medal to General John Dale Ryan (AFSN: AO-21117/ASN: 0-21117), United States Air Force, for exceptionally meritorious and distinguished service in a position of great responsibility to the Government of the United States. General Ryan distinguished himself as Vice Chief of Staff, United States Air Force, from 1 August 1968 to 31 July 1969. In this important position, General Ryan consistently demonstrated outstanding leadership, imagination, and initiative in responding to unprecedented demands placed on the Air Force in support of national policy and strategy. His tireless and dynamic efforts contributed significantly to the effective Air Force role in the Southeast Asia conflict and in other military operations of major national and international importance. General Ryan’s participation in the work of the Joint Chiefs of Staff has earned him the greatest respect for his wisdom, objectivity, and effectiveness in the resolution of significant and demanding problems affecting our national security. The singularly distinctive accomplishments of General Ryan reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Army Air Forces

    Rank:

    Lieutenant Colonel (Air Corps)

    Regiment:

    2d Bombardment Group (H)

    Division:

    15th Air Force

    Action Date:

    August 7, 1944
    Headquarters, 15th Air Force, General Orders No. 3091 (September 4, 1944)

    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) John Dale Ryan (AFSN: AO-21117/ASN: 0-21117), United States Army Air Forces, for gallantry in action as Pilot of a B-17 Flying Fortress Bomber of the 2d Bombardment Group, FIFTEENTH Air Force. On 7 August 1944, Colonel Ryan led a wing formation on a bombing mission against a vitally important oil refinery in Germany. Despite severe and adverse conditions encountered en route, through outstanding leadership and professional skill, he brought the entire formation directly to the target. Under heavy enemy opposition from both aggressive enemy fighters and intense and accurate anti-aircraft fire, he skillfully maneuvered his wing through a highly successful bombing run. Under his superior direction the bombs from the entire formation were concentrated in the immediate target area, inflicting grave damage to vital installations and supplies. Turning from the objective, he rallied his formation bringing it safely through to base without further damage. By his outstanding gallantry in the face of heavy enemy fire, together with his outstanding leadership and combat proficiency, as evidenced throughout over forty-five successful missions against the enemy, Colonel Ryan has reflected great credit upon himself and the Armed Forces of the United States of America.

  • Air Force Distinguished Service Medal

    Service:

    United States Air Force

    Rank:

    General

    Action Date:

    August 1, 1969 – July 31, 1973

    The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting a Fourth Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster (in addition to a previously awarded Army Design Air Force Distinguished Service Medal) in lieu of a Sixth Award of the Air Force Distinguished Service Medal to General John Dale Ryan (AFSN: AO-21117/ASN: 0-21117), United States Air Force, for exceptionally meritorious and distinguished service in a position of great responsibility to the Government of the United States. General Ryan distinguished himself as Chief of Staff, United States Air Force, from 1 August 1969 to 31 July 1973. In the highest military office of the Air Force and as a member of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, General Ryan consistently manifested an untiring devotion to duty, combining outstanding professional knowledge with leadership and integrity of the highest caliber. Through exemplary leadership and managerial skills, General Ryan has insured the continued effectiveness of the Air Force’s unique and essential contributions to America’s deterrence of strategic nuclear war. His guidance has enabled the Air Force to successfully fill a key role in Southeast Asia and to meet vital security and defense commitments throughout the world. His personal concern has led to significant advances in race relations, equal opportunity, and the welfare of Air Force men and women everywhere. As a result, he had made an individually satisfying life in the Air Force possible for all. During a period of major advancements in technology, his vision and direction added materially to the preservation of aerospace power as a potent factor in the attainment of world peace. The singularly distinctive accomplishments of General Ryan culminate a long and distinguished career of more than 35 years of service to his country and reflect great credit upon himself, the Armed Forces of the United States, and the United States of America.