The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Commander [then Lieutenant Commander] Albert Louis Gebelin (NSN: 0-73494/1100), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Commanding Officer of the Destroyer U.S.S. THOMPSON (DD-627), in action against enemy forces in the Bay of the Seine, France, 6, 7, and 8 June 1944. Operating as a unit of the Close Fire Support Group, Commander Gebelin closed the range to the beaches and, despite enemy fire, directed the delivery of accurate and efficient fire on enemy artillery and mortar emplacements and enemy troop concentrations which were impeding the advance of the troops on the beaches. His professional skill and courageous devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
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Awards Received
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Bronze Star Medal
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Bronze Star Medal
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Bronze Star Medal with Combat “V” to Captain Albert Louis Gebelin (NSN: 0-73494/1100), United States Navy, for meritorious service as Commander Destroyer Division FIFTY-TWO and Commander Task Unit NINETY-FIVE POINT TWO POINT ONE, during combat operations against enemy North Korean and Chinese Communist Forces in the Korean Theater from 19 May 1953 to 30 May 1953. Captain Gebelin, consistently exhibited outstanding professional skill and aggressiveness in the performance of his duties throughout this period. His duties included maintaining the blockade and patrol of Wonsan Harbor necessitating the destroyers under his command, including his own flagship, remaining inside the confines of the harbor, leaving only to replenish or during bombardment by heavy friendly ships. Despite operating within range of the enemy shore batteries, he operated his task unit in an extremely efficient and effective manner successfully defending the United Nations held islands in the harbor and inflicting considerable damage to enemy installations within range of his gunfire. By his courageous conduct, aggressiveness, and determination he contributed materially to the success of all missions assigned and to the termination of the conflict with the Communist Forces in North Korea. His inspiring leadership and steadfast devotion to duty were at all times in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. (Captain Gebelin is authorized to wear the Combat “V”.)