The President of the United States of America, authorized by Executive Order 11046, 24 August 1962, takes pleasure in presenting the Bronze Star Medal to Colonel John D. Folsom, II, United States Marine Corps, for meritorious achievement in connection with combat operations as Liaison Officer, II Marine Expeditionary Force (Forward) and Air Boss, Forward Operating Base Korean Village, Marine Wing Headquarters Squadron TWO, Second Marine Aircraft Wing (Forward), II Marine Expeditionary Force (Forward), Marine Corps Forces Central Command, in support of Operation IRAQI FREEDOM 04-06 from February 2005 to February 2006. Serving as the Wing Liaison Officer, Colonel Folsom expertly utilized his aviation knowledge and skills to coordinate and facilitate support to all Marine Air Ground Task Force efforts that required aviation support in the Multi-National Force-West area of operations. As the Korean Village Air Boss, Colonel Folsom’s extraordinary performance under dynamic and challenging conditions directly contributed to the ability of the Wing to successfully execute all of its missions in the Korean Village–Rutbah region and along the Syrian Border. Colonel Folsom developed and coordinated a comprehensive plan which allowed for the fueling, arming, and staging of aircraft in an expeditious manner which greatly increased the flexibility, synchronization, and responsiveness of air assets supporting ground units engaged with enemy forces. Colonel Folsom’s total effectiveness, leadership, and loyal devotion to duty reflected great credit upon him and upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.