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View Tree for Melvin Joseph KillianMelvin Joseph Killian (b. 31 Jan 1922, d. 30 Sep 1965)

Melvin Joseph Killian (son of Marvin Felix Killian and Louise Killian) was born 31 Jan 1922 in Council Bluffs, Iowa, and died 30 Sep 1965 in North Vietnam.

 Includes NotesNotes for Melvin Joseph Killian:
Mel's WWII Army Enlistment record shows he enlisted on 10 Feb 1941 at the age of 19. He enlisted in Council Bluffs, Iowa as a Private in the National Guard. His height was 71 inches and weight 153. At the time of his death he was a pilot in the U.S. Air Force with a rank of Colonel. He was flying a mission over North Vietnam. Then-Major Killian was shot down over North Vietnam on 30 September 1965 while flying an F-105D Thunderchief. His remains were recovered and returned home in 1985. His grave is in Arlington Cemetery where he lies beside his wife and 2 sons.

From the Find A Grave Website the following was entered....Colonel Melvin Killian was killed in action while piloting a F-105D over North Vietnam. His name is located on Panel 2E, Site 99. Recipient of the Air Force Cross. Served with the 334th Tactical Fighter Squadron, Takhli Royal Thai Air Base, ThailandDate of Action: September 30, 1965"Citation: The Air Force Cross is presented to Melvin Joseph Killian, Colonel, U.S. Air Force, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an opposing armed force over North Vietnam on 30 September 1965. On that date, Colonel Killian led a flight of F-105 aircraft against a highly significant military target. Colonel Killian proceeded on an unerring course to the target area. Arriving ahead of the main flight, he began an aerial survey of the area in order to give final navigational assistance to the incoming flight. Although subjected to intensive hostile ground fire, Colonel Killian flew his aircraft over the gun emplacements while giving encouragement and directions as each pilot braved the withering ground fire. His overwhelming desire for successful mission completion, and his concern for the safety of each pilot forced him to disregard his own personal safety while continuously flying within range of the ground fire. His outstanding dedication to duty, superior initiative, and mission performance resulted in the destruction of numerous hostile ground positions of vital significance to the Viet Cong. Through his extraordinary heroism, superb airmanship, and aggressiveness in the face of hostile forces, Colonel Killian reflected the highest credit upon himself and the United States Air Force. Home Town: Council Bluffs, IA" Sources: Home of Heroes Web Site and Vietnam Memorial Web Site.
- Paula
Added: 8/7/2006


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