The President of the United States of America, authorized by Executive Order 11046, 24 August 1962, takes pride in presenting the Bronze Star Medal with Combat “V” (Posthumously) to Captain (Infantry) Robert Milton Young, United States Army, for meritorious service while held Prisoner of War in Southeast Asia during the period 2 May 1970 to 17 September 1972. His ceaseless efforts to conduct himself strictly in accord with the Code of Conduct and policies of the prisoner organization in the difficult conditions of a communist prison clearly demonstrated his loyalty, love of country and professionalism. By his unselfish devotion to duty, he reflected great credit upon himself and the United Sates Army.

The President of the United States of America, authorized by Executive Order 11046, 24 August 1962, takes pride in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Bronze Star Medal (Posthumously) to Captain (Infantry) Robert Milton Young, United States Army, for heroic actions against an enemy force of the United States of America while serving as a Prisoner of War in Cambodia from 30 May 1972 to 20 June 1972. Captain Young conducted himself in a highly commendable manner during a confrontation between the senior ranking officer of the prison camp, Lieutenant Colonel Schrump, and the prison camp officials and cadre. The senior ranking American officer had been ordered to make stakes for perimeter security of the prison camp since they would serve as deterrent to prisoners in any attempt to escape. Refusing to obey this order, the colonel was threatened and punished for many days, and, although suffering from malaria, was refused medical aid. Realizing that their punishment would not change the colonel’s mind, the prison camp officials then refused to give him food and water. At hearing this, although weak and suffering from severe malnutrition, Captain Young endangered his well-being by giving the colonel his full support by refusing to eat or drink until the camp cadre gave Colonel Schrump food and water. This condition continued for several days until a final decision was made and Colonel Schrump was returned to his cell, given food and water, and normal camp life was restored. During this period, Captain Young’s courage, aggressiveness, and leadership by example were in the highest traditions of the military service and reflected great credit upon himself and the United States of America.