Truman H. Landon

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Truman H. Landon, Major, U.S. Army Air Force, for gallantry in action, conspicuous bravery, coolness and expert handling of his airplane while serving with the 18th Reconnaissance Squadron (Heavy), during the Japanese aerial attack on Hickam Field, Territory of Hawaii, on 7 December 1941. Major Landon, Echelon Commander on a flight from Hamilton Field, California, after an all-night flight and with only a small quantity of gasoline remaining which necessitated an early landing, arrived in the vicinity of Hickam Field during the Japanese attack and was subjected to heavy anti-aircraft fire and was attacked by Japanese aircraft. Major Landon’s flight was unarmed and unprepared for an attack and rather than risk damaging the aircraft under his control by landing in an inadequate, although protected field, brought about the safe landing of his flight through his skill, coolness and daring under fire.

Authority: “Heroes of Pearl Harbor”, Donald K. & Helen L. Ross