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The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, 20 July 1942, takes pride in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Legion of Merit (Posthumously) to Lieutenant Colonel (Infantry) Robert Gene Kimmel (ASN: 0-66464), United States Army, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States during the period August 1967 to November 1967, while serving as Battalion Commander, 1st Battalion, 35th Infantry Regiment, 3d Brigade, 4th Infantry Division, in the Republic of Vietnam. Colonel Kimmel’s leadership, vigor and enthusiasm were reflected in the consistently fine performance or the entire battalion. Shortly after arrival, he was faced with the problem of organizing a new rifle company and combat support company. He devoted many hours of study and hard work to the problem of reorganization and accomplished it without any sacrifice of combat effectiveness. In reaction to intense enemy activity, Colonel Kimmel moved his unit to the rugged mountains in the southern part of the I Corps Tactical Zone. Due to the tortuous terrain in which the insurgents were operating, it was often necessary for him to remain airborne in his command and control helicopter for periods exceeding fifteen hours a day. His stamina and courage were responsible for the battalion’s notable operational successes. Colonel Kimmel’s calm, practical approach to the complex problems imposed by fast-moving battlefield conditions, coupled with his masterful knowledge of infantry tactics enabled him to keep control under any combat situation. On 14 November 1967 his helicopter was hit by enemy fire as he directed his men in a fierce engagement, and he was killed in the crash. Colonel Kimmel’s extraordinary service and unimpeachable valor significantly enhanced the counterinsurgency mission and will serve as a model to those who follow him. His professional competence and outstanding achievements were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Lieutenant Colonel (Infantry)

    Batallion:

    1st Battalion

    Regiment:

    35th Infantry Regiment

    Division:

    4th Infantry Division

    Action Date:

    November 13 – 14, 1967
    Headquarters, 4th Infantry Division, General Orders No. 4669 (December 31, 1967)

    The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Lieutenant Colonel (Infantry) Robert Gene Kimmel (ASN: 0-66464), United States Army, for gallantry in action while engaged in military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam. Lieutenant Colonel Kimmel distinguished himself while serving as the Battalion Commander of the 1st Battalion, 35th Infantry Regiment, 4th Infantry Division. On 13 November 1967, Lieutenant Colonel Kimmel was directing the actions of two infantry companies and an attached armored unit which were engaged with two heavily armed North Vietnamese regiments. Due to poor visibility, it was necessary for his helicopter to fly at a lower than normal altitude. Although aware that his own safety was greatly jeopardized, Colonel Kimmel remained aloft over the battle area, directing and coordinating his units in the engagements. Suddenly, enemy fire struck his aircraft causing it to crash in a rice paddy. Colonel Kimmel was successfully rescued unhurt and was again airborne over the battle within an hour. The next morning inclement weather continued to prevail as Colonel Kimmel returned to direct the operations of the prolonged battle. While making a sweep over the enemy-infested area, hostile .50 caliber machine gun fire ripped through the rear section of the helicopter, resulting in the loss of the tail rotor. Unable to maintain altitude, the aircraft crashed and burst into flames upon impact, mortally wounding all aboard. Lieutenant Colonel Kimmel’s extraordinary heroism and exemplary devotion to duty are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.

  • Legion of Merit

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Lieutenant Colonel (Infantry)

    Action Date:

    Vietnam War

    (Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, 20 July 1942, takes pleasure in presenting the Legion of Merit to Lieutenant Colonel (Infantry) Robert Gene Kimmel (ASN: 0-66464), United States Army, for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States. The singularly distinctive accomplishments of Colonel Kimmel and his dedicated contributions in the service of his country reflect the highest credit upon himself and the United States Army.