The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain Kent L. Helber, United States Air Force, for gallantry in connection with military operations against an opposing armed force while serving with the 8th Aerial Port Squadron, Tan Son Nhut Air Base, Republic of Vietnam, in action against the enemy at Katum Special Forces Camp, Republic of Vietnam on 24 September 1968.

On that date, Captain Helber was the team leader of a Combat Control Team who was deploying to the camp to provide air traffic control and ground support for the aerial re-supply of the beleaguered Vietnamese camp which was under pre-siege mortar and rocket barrage.

With complete disregard for his personal safety Captain Helber helped clear the drop zone and recover the load before it was recovered by hostile forces and used against the camp.

By the successful recovery of these much needed supplies, the imminent hostile ground attack was bolted and the Vietnamese camp kept from being overrun by a determined hostile force.

By his gallantry and devotion to duty, Captain Helber has reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.