Cold War era - 1980’s US Army Officers Dress Green Uniform & trousers named to Lt Gen John Franklin Forrest who last served before his retirement in 1983 as the Deputy Commander-in-Chief of United States Army Europe (USAREUR). The uniform is in good condition but has wrinkles from storage which would likely iron out.
Lieutenant General John Franklin “Jack” Forrest was born on June 20, 1927, in Mexia, Texas, and grew up in a military family with deep roots in U.S. history, including his ancestor, Confederate General Nathan Bedford Forrest. His father, a World War I Army Air Corps pilot, and his brother, a veteran of the Battle of the Bulge in World War II, influenced his decision to pursue a military career. Jack excelled academically and athletically at Olney High School and entered the United States Military Academy at West Point toward the end of World War II. During his time as a cadet, he became known for his leadership skills and met Patricia Smith, with whom he enjoyed a 48-year marriage that produced ten children.
Forrest’s distinguished military career spanned multiple conflicts, beginning with the Korean War, where he commanded a platoon in the 5th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division. His bravery earned him two Silver Stars, two Purple Hearts, and the Combat Infantryman Badge. He later served two tours in Vietnam, commanding the 3-187th Infantry Battalion, 101st Airborne Division during the Tet Offensive of 1968. His leadership was recognized with a third Silver Star, four Bronze Stars for Valor, and numerous other commendations. After Vietnam, he held several key commands, including Commanding General of the 4th Infantry Division and Commander of the First Army. His last assignment came in July 1981, when he served as the Deputy Commander-in-Chief of United States Army Europe (USAREUR) in Heidelberg, Germany. After 33 years of active service, he retired on August 11, 1983.
In retirement, Forrest settled in Colorado Springs, where he became actively involved in civic affairs, serving as the first Executive Director of the U.S. Space Foundation and later being elected to the City Council. He passed away in 1997 at age 69 after a series of strokes, leaving behind a legacy of leadership, dedication, and service. The Forrest Fitness Center at Fort Carson was dedicated in his honor in 1998.
Silver Star:
First Lieutenant (Infantry) John Franklin Forrest, United States Army, was awarded the Silver Star for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 5th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division, in Korea.
First Lieutenant (Infantry) John Franklin Forrest, United States Army, was awarded a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 5th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division, in Korea.
Colonel (Infantry) John Franklin Forrest, United States Army, was awarded a Second Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Third Award of the Silver Star for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving as a Battalion Commander, 101st Airborne Division, in the Republic of Vietnam, in 1967.