First Lieutenant McAlpine was the pilot of a F-51D Mustang night fighter with the 67th Fighter Bomber Squadron, 18th Fighter Bomber Wing. On 24 June 1952, while returning from a combat mission of close support, his aircraft crashed upon landing.

Medals, Awards & Badges

Distinguished Flying Cross
Purple Heart
Air Medal
National Defense Service Medal
Korean Service Medal
United Nations Service Medal
Republic of Korea War Service Medal
Republic of Korea Presidential Unit Citation
AF Pilot Badge

Distinguished Flying Cross Citation:

"While participating in aerial flights against forces of the enemy in the Korean Campaign, First Lieutenant John M. McAlpine distinguished himself ... by flying at dangerously low altitude in adverse weather over enemy - held territory, rocketed, strafed, and bombed enemy supplies, troops, equipment, and transportation facilities. By his aggressive leadership, and courage, and by his superior judgment and flying skill, First Lieutenant McAlpine has brought great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force."