AWARDED DFC: 1
CONFLICT/SPACE FLIGHT/EVENT:  -
MODEL:  C-47

Citation:  1.) The President of the United States takes great pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to First Lieutenant James Pragar (then Second Lieutenant) .On 12 September 1951, First Lieutenant Pragar displayed extraordinary skill, devotion to duty, and inspirational leadership while participating in aerial flight. As Aircraft Commander on an unarmed, unescorted C-47 cargo type aircraft, he flew a night intelligence, deep-penetration mission of extreme importance to the United Nations' war effort in Korea. In order to avoid detection by an enemy radar unit known to be operating in the vicinity of the target, First Lieutenant Pragar flew hazardous courses through valleys and mountain passes to the target, using the rugged mountains as a defense against radar detection. This mission, extremely dangerous in good weather and doubly so in bad weather, was deemed extremely important to the United Nations' effort in Korea. In carrying forward to a successful completion a mission which garnered much valuable information for future operations, First Lieutenant Pragar has brought great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.