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 Colonel Richard Abbott Kibbey, United States Air Force, for gallantry in action in connection with military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force as Co-Pilot of an HH-3E Rescue Helicopter of Detachment 5, 38th Air Rescue and Recovery Squadron, 3d Air Rescue and Recovery Group, SEVENTH Air Force, near Mugia Pass, North Vietnam on 6 February 1967. On that date, Captain Kibbey flew two sorties to rescue an American pilot downed in heavily defended hostile territory. On the second sortie, despite intense anti-aircraft fire and with complete disregard for his own personal safety, Captain Kibbey persevered in the rescue attempt until he was forced to leave the area. By his gallantry and devotion to duty, Captain Kibbey has reflected great credit upon himself and the United States Air Force.