The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant Colonel J. Frank Cole (MCSN: 0-6231), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Commanding Officer of Marine Fighter Squadron THREE HUNDRED TWELVE (VMF-312), in action against enemy aggressor forces in the Korean Area from 16 September to 15 December 1950. Utilizing professional ability and comprehensive knowledge of aerial combat operations in welding his group into a highly efficient fighting team, Lieutenant Colonel Cole contributed materially to the success of his squadron in furnishing close air support to friendly forces despite intense hostile ground fire, hazardous terrain, adverse weather conditions and personnel and logistical difficulties. Personally conducting attacks on the enemy in the face of dangerous terrain and marginal weather, he braved hostile fire to locate and lead his squadron in the destruction of enemy positions, thereby permitting the advance of our ground forces. A skilled airman and inspiring leader, Lieutenant Colonel Cole, by his courage and unwavering devotion to duty, upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.