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Gilkeson, Fillmore Bolling

Date of birth:
October 27th, 1915
Date of death:
May 23rd, 1996
Service number:
0-78725/1310, U.S. Navy
Nationality:
American

Biography

Filmore Gilkeson graduated in 1937 from the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis.
For his service after the Second World Wat he was awarded the Legion of Merit twice. He retired holding the rank of Rear Admiral.

Career:
June 1955 - June 1957: Commanding Officer Air Development Squadron 5 (VX-5);
August 22nd, 1959 - April 3rd, 1960: Commanding Officer U.S.S. Caloosahatchee (AO-98);
September 1973 - 1975: Commanding Officer Eleventh Naval District.

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Period:
Second World War (1939-1945)
Rank:
Lieutenant Commander
Unit:
Air Group
Citation:
"For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy on 4 May 1945, while in Command of an Air Group aboard an Escort Carrier during the Ryukyu Islands campaign. Lieutenant Commander Gilkeson displayed aggressive leadership and great personal courage when his ship was seriously damaged and set afire by enemy action. At the time of the initial explosion he was present on the forward end of the flight deck where he gathered and organized air group and ship's personnel in an efficient fire-fighting team, which attacked the flames in spite of intense heat, smothering smoke and exploding ammunition. Later, on the hangar deck, he assisted actively in a very dangerous area, again exposed to peril from heat, smoke and exploding ammunition, He, in particular, incited men to more vigorous action by his complete disregard for his own safety. His efforts contributed materially to the saving of the ship. His courageous actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service."
Silver Star Medal (SSM)

Sources

Photo