Navy Federal Credit Union

The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain (Medical Corps) Gilbert S. Campbell (ASN: 0-1727174), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a Medical Officer with the Medical Company, 7th Infantry Regiment, 3d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy in Korea. On 16 February 1951, near Kamil-ni, Korea, Captain Campbell, 3d Battalion Surgeon, was advancing toward Hill 287 with the battalion command group when he was informed that Company K, 3d Battalion, located on the hill, had suffered casualties. Although it is not the duty of a battalion surgeon to personally and directly evacuate wounded at the scene of an action, Captain Campbell, securing two men, unhesitatingly began to work his way up the hazardous mountain, completely disregarding the intense enemy mortar and small arms fire. Upon reaching the top of the hill, he immediately proceeded to the wounded and, heedless of advice to take cover, went from man to man administering aid and comfort. Having given all the aid possible, Captain Campbell selected a route over the mountain side and both directed and assisted in the evacuation of the wounded. Despite the frigid cold and harassing enemy fire, Captain Campbell made the trip three times to insure that all of the casualties were evacuated. The gallantry, coolness under fire, and professional skill displayed by Captain Campbell reflects great credit upon himself and the military service.

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Captain (Medical Corps)

    Regiment:

    7th Infantry Regiment

    Division:

    3d Infantry Division

    Action Date:

    May 31, 1951

    Headquarters, 3d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 311 (July 25, 1951)

    The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star to Captain (Medical Corps) Gilbert S. Campbell (ASN: 0-1727174), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Medical Company, 7th Infantry Regiment, 3d Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in Korea. On 31 May 1951, Company L, 7th Infantry Regiment succeeded in securing a small beachhead on the Hant’an River, Korea. Heavy rains had made the river extremely deep and treacherous which prevented a possible fording. Since the engineers were unable to construct a bridge over the river because of enemy fire sweeping the area, a life-line was being used. When an infantryman, heavily loaded with ammunition and equipment, lost his grip and fell into the swift current, Captain Campbell left the safety of the aid station and plunged into the water in an effort to recover the soldier’s body. Completely oblivious to the increasing intensity of the hostile fire and although his body was repeatedly dashed against floating debris, he courageously continued his efforts. Finally after a half hour of continuous diving and swimming, Captain Campbell was forced to discontinue his search because of complete physical exhaustion. The selfless gallantry and deep concern for his fellow soldier displayed by Captain Campbell reflect great credit upon himself and uphold the highest traditions of the Military Service of the United States.