"He fought with conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity over Luzon, Philippine Islands. Voluntarily, he led a squadron of 15 P-38's as top
cover for heavy bombers striking Mabalacat Airdrome, where his formation
was attacked by 20 aggressive Japanese fighters. In the ensuing action
he repeatedly flew to the aid of embattled comrades, driving off enemy
assaults while himself under attack and at times outnumbered 3 to 1, and
even after his guns jammed, continuing the fight by forcing a hostile
plane into his wingman's line of fire. Before he started back to his
base he had shot down 3 Zeros. The next day he again volunteered to lead
escort fighters on a mission to strongly defended Clark Field. During
the resultant engagement he again exposed himself to attacks so that he
might rescue a crippled bomber. In rapid succession he shot down 1
aircraft, parried the attack of 4 enemy fighters, 1 of which he shot
down, single-handedly engaged 3 more Japanese, destroying 1, and then
shot down still another, his 38th victory in aerial combat. On 7 January
1945, while leading a voluntary fighter sweep over Los Negros Island,
he risked an extremely hazardous maneuver at low altitude in an attempt
to save a fellow flyer from attack, crashed, and was reported missing in
action. With gallant initiative, deep and unselfish concern for the
safety of others, and heroic determination to destroy the enemy at all
costs, Maj. McGuire set an inspiring example in keeping with the highest
traditions of the military service."
From Maj. McGuire Jr.'s Medal of Honor citation, awarded on March 7, 1946.
May you be at peace,
Brian & Mel
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