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Old July 24th 03, 10:35 PM
Cub Driver
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She was a POW and she was injured in war, therefore the POW Medal and
Purple Heart are deserved, but not the BS. Why is that so hard to
understand?


Several posts have shown how the Bronze Star and even medals for valor
are handed out indiscriminately.

Lyndon Johnson got the Silver Star for this mission:

"For gallantry in action in the vicinity of Port Moresby and Salamaua,
New Guinea on June 9, 1942. While on a mission of obtaining
information in the Southwest Pacific area, Lieutenant Commander
Johnson, in order to obtain personal knowledge of combat conditions,
volunteered as an observer on a hazardous aerial combat mission over
hostile positions in New Guinea. As our planes neared the target area
they were intercepted by eight hostile fighters. When, at this time,
the plane in which Lieutenant Commander Johnson was an observer,
developed mechanical trouble and was forced to turn back alone,
presenting a favorable target to the enemy fighters, he evidenced
marked coolness in spite of the hazards involved. His gallant action
enabled him to obtain and return with valuable information."

I have seen it creditably argued that Johnson's plane was nowhere near
the "hostile fighters". He was a tourist on that flight, not a spy for
the U.S. Navy! Crikey. Pretty Jessie deserves her Bronze far more than
LBJ deserved his Silver.

Why is that so hard to understand? Or do you find it easier to justify
bull**** medals for politicians, or officers, or men?

all the best -- Dan Ford
email: www.danford.net/letters.htm#9

see the Warbird's Forum at http://www.danford.net/index.htm
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