Kilburn, Gerald, LTC

His Legion of Merit Citation reads:

Lieutenant Colonel Gerald Kilburn, Infantry, distinguished himself by exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services during the period September 1970 to November 1970, while serving as Support Detachment Commander, Army Component, Joint Contingency Task Group, JCS Project Ivory Coast. During this period Colonel Kilburn was directly responsible for supervision of the complex training, administrative and logistical support of the Army component while maintaining stringent security for the force in an isolated and restricted training area. Colonel Kilburn clearly demonstrated his exemplary leadership ability in maintaining discipline and morale of the Army component under the most difficult conditions. His ability to recognize problem areas and take the necessary action prior to their becoming critical was a major factor in the preparation of the Joint Task Force for successful execution of its JCS directed mission to rescue and extract United States military personnel held as prisoners of war in SON TAY, North Vietnam. Colonel Kilburn's brilliant and effective planning and execution of all assigned missions made a significant contribution to the overall success of the mission. His outstanding performance of meritorious services are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit on him and the United States Army.

Prisoner of War Medal

Corporal Gerald Kilburn (ASN: RA-15264065), United States Army, was held as a Prisoner of War after he was captured during the Korean War on 29 November 1950 and was held until his release on 24 August 1953 after the signing of the Armistice.