CITATION TO ACCOMPANY THE AWARD OF THE SILVER STAR

THE VIETNAM WAR - SOUTHEAST ASIA - THE REPUBLIC OF VIETNAM

TAN SON NHUT AB, VIETNAM

SERGEANT JOHN E. LEBOLD

Sergeant John E. Lebold distinguished himself by gallantry in connection with military operations against an opposing armed force at Tan Son Nhut Air Base, Republic of Vietnam, on 29 April 1975.

Amidst heavy artillery and rocket firepower, plus panic stricken Vietnamese Air Force pilots and refugees, he steadfastly maintained his post to provide essential high frequency communications, and personally removed live ordnance from the runway, thereby preventing loss of life and aircraft, and enabling numerous aircraft departures from the besieged Tan Son Nhut Airfield during the emergency evacuation operation.

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