Korean War - Silver Star - Navy
The Silver Star Medal is the United States' third-highest award exclusively for combat valor and ranks fifth in the precedence of military awards behind the Medal of Honor, the Crosses (Distinguished Service Cross/Navy Cross/Air Force Cross), the Defense Distinguished Service Medal (awarded by DOD), and the Distinguished Service Medals of the various branches of service. It is the highest award for combat valor that is not unique to any specific branch; it has been bestowed by the Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, Coast Guard, and Merchant Marines. It may be given by any one of the individual services to not only their own members, but to members of other branches of service, foreign allies, and even to civilians for "gallantry in action" in support of combat missions of the United States military.
We have identified slightly more than 11,800 Army, Navy, Air Force, and Marine Corps recipients of the Silver Star for gallantry in action during the Korean War. These are listed in the PDF document titled "Index of Major Awards", which is found on this page.
We have thus far identified 136 members of the U.S. Navy who were awarded the Silver Star during the Korean War.
* Indicates Killed in Action (KIA), Missing in Action (MIA), Prisoner of War (POW), or Died Non-Battle (DNB)
ABELS, RICHARD W.
Citation:
The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star (Army Award) to Hospitalman Richard W. Abels (NSN: 5583603), United States Navy, for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving as a Corpsman attached to the FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces near Kwanchikyong, Korea, on 2 June 1951. On that date, Company E was assaulting a ridge defended by well entrenched enemy forces. As a Medical Corpsman, Hospital Abels was with the leading elements of the company when the unit was subjected to intense enemy grenade, automatic weapons, and small arms fire, suffering severe casualties. Heedless of the grave personal danger, Hospitalman Abels moved quickly forward to minister to the wounded. Although many of his men were within a few yards of the enemy position, and completely exposed, he unhesitatingly moved to their aid, remaining with his patients until they could be moved to positions of comparative safety. As the attack progressed, he repeatedly exposed himself to enemy fire in order to treat and evacuate wounded comrades. The gallantry, initiative, and personal heroism displayed by Hospitalman Abels on this occasion reflect great credit on himself and the military service.
ALLAN, HALLE C.
Citation:
The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star (Army Award) to Captain Halle Charles Allan, Jr. (NSN: 0-61063), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy as Commander, Destroyer Squadron NINE, Joint Task Force SEVEN, United Nations Command, in action in the Inchon-Seoul operation during the period 15 September to 21 September 1950. His actions contributed materially to the success of this operation and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service.
Home Town: Tampa, Florida
ARCHER, STEPHEN M.
Citation:
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Commander Stephen Morris Archer (NSN: 0-71396), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action as Commander Underwater Reconnaissance Element in support of naval forces conducting operations in heavily mined waters during the period 10 to 22 October 1950. When the U.S.S. PLEDGE and U.S.S. PIRATE were mined on 12 October, he conducted rescue operations for surviving personnel with disregard for his own safety in the face of enemy gunfire from shore batteries. The leadership, force, and judgment displayed by Commander Archer in directing visual and sonar searches for mines throughout this period and in supervising underwater demolition operations in the vicinity of Koto and Rei-To Islands contributed directly to the successful clearance of mine channels and anchorage areas off Wonsan, Korea. His outstanding courage and steadfast devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: New Bremen, Ohio
ARNTZ, LELAND G.
Citation:
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Hospital Corpsman Third Class Leland G. Arntz (NSN: 3134080), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving as a Corpsman attached to a Marine Infantry Company of the FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 27 November 1950. Hospital Corpsman Third Class Arntz was serving as a Corpsman with a rifle platoon on a mountainous, snow covered ridge near Yudam-ni, Korea. When his platoon was subjected to heavy enemy small arms, machine gun, Mortar and grenade fire, he fearlessly exposed himself to move among the wounded administering aid and assisting in the evacuation of the casualties. Without regard for his own personal safety, he made numerous trips evacuating the wounded from the front lines to the company command post. On one trip, he was painfully wounded in the shoulder and was ordered to submit to medical evacuation whereupon, he voluntarily returned to the front lines and continued to work in the sub-zero weather with a painful wound, for which he could have been evacuated. His actions were in inspiration to all members of his platoon and undoubtedly saved the lives of many wounded Marines who would have otherwise succumbed from the extreme exposure. Hospital Corpsman Third Class Arnitz's heroic actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
AVERA, RAY
Citation:
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Hospitalman Ray Avera, Jr. (NSN: 3826736), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving as a Corpsman with a Marine Infantry Company of the FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 24 April 1951. Hospitalman Avera displayed outstanding courage and initiative when the platoon was subjected to a violent, night-long attack by a numerically superior enemy force. Exposing himself without regard for his personal safety to devastating enemy mortar, automatic weapons and small arms fire, he continually moved through the position rendering aid to the casualties and dragging them to covered positions. Courageously answering a call from a seriously wounded man in a forward position, he proceeded unhesitatingly along a fire-swept ridge line to reach him. Despite the fact that he was painfully wounded by an enemy bullet, he continued forward, and rendered skillful first aid. In carrying his wounded comrade back to safety, he was hit for a second time, and forced to submit to evacuation. His great personal bravery and devotion to duty were an inspiration to all who observed him. Hospitalman Avera's heroic actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
ARAIZA, WILLIAM G.
Citation:
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Hospitalman William G. Araiza (NSN: 5688419), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving as a Medical Corpsman attached to a Marine Infantry Company of the FIRST Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, during operations against enemy aggressor forces in Korea, on 26 September 1950. While under intense enemy small-arms, machine gun, and anti-tank fire, Hospitalman Araiza fearlessly risked his life to run forward from his covered position into the fire-swept area and, although painfully wounded, succeeded in pulling a wounded Marine for a distance of about 30 yards to a semi-covered position where he administered first aid. His exceptional courage, fortitude and inspiring devotion to duty on behalf of another reflect the highest credit upon Hospitalman Araiza and the United States Naval Service.
AULT, VERNON P.
Citation:
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Hospitalman Vernon P. Ault (NSN: 3729214), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving as a Corpsman attached to a Marine Infantry Company of the FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 29 September 1950. During an attack by his company Hospitalman Ault, acting as Company Corpsman, was painfully wounded in the leg and arm. Despite the severe pain and extreme loss of blood, he courageously continued to administer aid to the wounded while under intense enemy small arms and machine gun fire. He refused to be evacuated but continued to administer first aid until he collapsed from his extremely painful wounds and loss of blood and had to be carried to the aid station. Hospitalman Ault's heroic actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
BAGGIO, FIORAMANTE G.
Citation:
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Hospitalman Third Class Fioramante G. Baggio (NSN: 5536512), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving as a Medical Corpsman attached to a Marine Infantry Company of the FIRST Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in Korea, on 27 and 28 November 1950. Serving as a Corpsman attached to a rifle company, Hospital Corpsman Third Class Baggio consistently performed his duties in an exceptionally efficient manner. On 27 and 28 November when his company was subjected to an all night attack by an estimated two battalions of enemy, he utilized the only available tent in the area and organized and maintained a central aid station to care for the casualties. Throughout the night and while under enemy small arms, grenade and mortar fire, with complete disregard for his own personal safety he voluntarily made repeated trips to the front lines in order to aid the casualties. When no stretcher bearers were available and on his own initiative, he organized evacuation teams and directed movement of the casualties to his aid station. Through his tireless efforts and skillful treatment many of his comrades were saved. When it became apparent that their position could not be maintained, he again organized parties to move the casualties through the infiltrated enemy and under fire to the safety of friendly lines. During the subsequent move of our forces through the encircling enemy he continued to care for the wounded in the same daring and resourceful manner until seriously wounded himself. Hospital Corpsman Third Class Baggio's heroic actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
BASLEE, HERBERT L.
Citation:
The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Lieutenant Commander Herbert Lester Baslee, Jr. (NSN: 0-165577), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while acting as a strike leader of a flight of Panther Jets of Fighter Squadron FIFTY-TWO (VF-52), embarked in U.S.S. VALLEY FORGE (CV-45), on an interdiction strike mission against enemy rail lines in the vicinity of Munchon, North Korea, on 17 March 1952. Leading his flight against enemy gun positions, Lieutenant Commander Baslee pressed home his aggressive and determined attack through a veritable hail of intense and accurate anti-aircraft fire, with utter disregard for his own personal safety, in order to silence the weapons and permit the flight to accomplish their assigned mission. Although his aircraft received several lethal hits, Lieutenant Commander Baslee continued to fire his guns against the enemy's positions until his plane crashed into the ground resulting in his death. His exceptional courage in the face of the gravest hazards, and his unswerving determination in pressing home his attack to insure the success of the mission exemplifies his extraordinary bravery and devotion to duty. His gallant fighting spirit reflect the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Albany, Oregon
BECKLEY, JERRY E.
Citation:
The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Gunner's Mate Third Class [then Private First Class, United States Army] Jerry E. Beckley (NSN: 4606831/ASN: RA-19323889), United States Navy, for gallantry in action while serving with Battery B, 555th Field Artillery Battalion, 25th Infantry Division, on 12 August 1950 near San Gam-ni, Korea, when Private First Class Beckley's battery was subjected to a powerful hostile assault. Although his position was in grave danger of being isolated, he remained at his post and assisted in directing a heavy volume of effective 3.5 rocket launcher fire at the onrushing enemy. When an exploding ammunition truck endangered another fully loaded truck, he voluntarily exposed himself to the flying fragments and evacuated the vehicle to safety. Private First Class Beckley's courage, initiative and steadfast devotion to duty reflect great credit on himself, his unit and the United States Armed Forces.
Home Town: California
*BEGALE, JOHN D. (KIA)
Citation:
The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Hospitalman First Class John D. Begale (Bagale) (NSN: 7532247), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving as a Corpsman with a Marine Infantry Company of the FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 17 May 1951. Hospitalman First Class Begale displayed outstanding courage and devotion to duty when the company position was attacked during hours of darkness by a numerically superior enemy force. Courageously moving to the portion of the line under heaviest assault, he exposed himself to devastating enemy automatic weapons and small arms fire to render first aid to the wounded and drag them to safety. Refusing to seek safety for himself, he was moving across a fire-swept area to reach another wounded comrade when he was mortally wounded by enemy fire, gallantly giving his life for his country. Hospitalman First Class Begale's great personal bravery and heroic actions were an inspiration to all who observed him, and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Jacksonville, Illnois
*BERGMAN, ROBERT A. (KIA)
Citation:
The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Hospitalman Robert Arnold Bergman (NSN: 2357326), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving as a Corpsman attached to Company I, 3d Battalion, 7th Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in Korea, on 16 June 1952. When the squad to which he was attached was ambushed by the enemy, and the forward elements of the unit were pinned down within 20 yards of the assigned objective by intense hostile small-arms and grenade fire, Hospitalman Bergman unhesitatingly dashed forward through a hail of enemy fire to survey the area for casualties. Learning that medical assistance was not required at the point of the squad, he bravely raced across 150 yards of open, fire-swept terrain to reach the main body of the unit and to administer medical aid to the wounded during a heavy barrage of hostile mortar fire. Although severely wounded by enemy fire while treating a stricken Marine, he refused to be evacuated and calmly instructed another member of the squad in administering aid to the casualty. Subsequently evacuated from the area, he later succumbed to the wounds received in this action. By his outstanding courage, daring initiative and selfless efforts in behalf of his comrades, Hospitalman Bergman served to inspire all who observed him and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
BERNIER, RAYMOND H.
Citation:
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Hospitalman Raymond H. Bernier (NSN: 2100008), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving as a Corpsman attached to a Marine Infantry Company of the FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 25 September 1950. Hospitalman Bernier was acting as a Corpsman with an infantry platoon. During the attack by his platoon against intense enemy small arms, machine gun and mortar fire, he observed a wounded Marine. Without regard for his personal safety, he fearlessly and courageously ran through the intense enemy fire to administer aid. On the way he was painfully wounded in the leg, however, despite the pain and suffering from loss of blood he continued to the wounded Marine. He then pulled the wounded Marine to a position of cover and administered aid. Hospitalman Bernier then continued to go among the wounded and administer aid until he became so weak from the loss of blood and suffering from the painful wound that it became necessary to evacuate him. Hospitalman Bernier's display of initiative and heroic actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
BIEBINGER, OSCAR L.
Citation:
The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star (Army Award) to Hospitalman Third Class Oscar L. Biebinger (NSN: 6577232), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Corpsman attached to the First Motor Transport Battalion, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea. On 3 December 1950, Hospital Corpsman Third Class Biebinger's unit, together with other United Nations Forces, made a successful break-through in the Chosin Reservoir area. As a result of this action, a considerable number of Army infantrymen were wounded. Immediately realizing the peril of the wounded infantrymen, Hospital Corpsman Third Class Biebinger, on his own initiative, in company with two other Marines, volunteered to go forward and attempt to rescue the wounded. With utter disregard for his personal safety, and in the face of enemy hand grenades, mortar and small arms fire, he ventured approximately three miles beyond enemy lines and worked tirelessly until all known wounded had been removed. The devotion to duty, determination and gallantry displayed by Hospital Corpsman Third Class Biebinger on this occasion reflects great credit upon himself and was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: North Carolina
BOND, RICHARD A.
Citation:
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Hospital Corpsman First Class Richard A. Bond (NSN: 2687437), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving as a Corpsman attached to a Marine Infantry Battalion of the FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 10 December 1950. Hospital Corpsman First Class Bond, serving as a Corpsman with a Weapons Company exhibited numerous acts of outstanding courage and devotion to duty. While being evacuated by ambulance from Koto-ri, Korea, for frozen hands and feet, and a crushed knee, he dismounted when the head of the convoy was hit by enemy fire, and moved forward to render first aid to the wounded and assisted in their evacuation to the Regimental Aid Station. Hospital Corpsman First Class Bond repeatedly refused to be evacuated, although suffering from the extreme pain of his frostbitten feet and hands, and crushed knee that could bear little weight. With complete disregard for his own personal safety, in sub-zero weather, he aided materially in saving the lives of numerous wounded Marines. It was some twelve hours later before he would permit himself to be evacuated. Hospital Corpsman First Class Bond's actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
BONNER, ROBERT A.
Citation:
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant (Chaplain) Robert A. Bonner (NSN: 0-425108), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving as a Chaplain with a Marine Artillery Regiment of the FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in Korea from 15 September to 27 September 1950. Lieutenant Bonner, though not required to do so, regularly visited elements of his regiment attached to front line units, courageously exposing himself to enemy small arms and mortar fire in order to encourage and minister to the men. While returning to his regiment after one visit he was seriously wounded when the vehicle in which he was riding struck a land mine. With the vehicle in flames, he risked his life to remove three wounded comrades. Despite his own severe burns and painful wounds he then walked more than half a mile to a battalion aid station to obtain medical assistance for his comrades. Only then would he consent to treatment for his own wounds. His courageous conduct and disregard for personal safety combined with his constant concern for the officers and men in his spiritual keeping were an inspiration to all who served with him. Lieutenant Bonner's actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
BONEY, ROBERT M.
Citation:
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Hospitalman Third Class Donald M. Boney, United States Naval Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving as a Medical Corpsman with a Marine Artillery Battery of the FIRST Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in Korea, on 3 July 1951. Hospital Corpsman Third Class Boney displayed outstanding courage and devotion to duty when the battery was subjected to intense and accurate enemy artillery fire, causing many casualties. When he observed a wounded man lying in a gun pit, he courageously rushed across sixty yards of open ground, with shells bursting all around him, to reach his comrade and render first aid. While he was treating the wounded man, an enemy shell exploded beside him and he was himself seriously wounded, but continued steadfastly to aid his comrade despite the intense pain of his wounds. Refusing to seek medical aid, he then fearlessly continued to expose himself to the devastating enemy fire to render aid to ten other casualties, and directed their removal to covered positions, seeking aid for himself only after the enemy fire had ceased and all casualties had received treatment. Hospital Corpsman Third Class Boney's great personal bravery and heroic actions were an inspiration to all who observed him, and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
BORDELON, GUY P.
Citation:
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star to Lieutenant Guy Pierre Bordelon (NSN: 0-278231), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Pilot of a Night Fighter Plane attached to Composing Squadron THREE (VC-3), serving with Fighter Squadron ONE HUNDRED FIFTY-TWO (VF-52), embarked in U.S.S. PRINCETON (CVS-37), while temporarily based ashore at Pyongtaek Airfield in South Korea on 1 July 1953. Flying in total darkness over mountainous terrain and through adverse weather conditions, Lieutenant Bordelon intercepted a flight of enemy planes in the vicinity of the Jaeju peninsula of North Korea. Utilizing his intercept radar, he exhibited superior ability and airmanship by maneuvering his plane into an attack position on each of two enemy Lavochkin Nine aircraft and destroyed them. The second enemy pilot attempted to escape into the restricted air space surround the Armistice Delegation Headquarters at Munsan-ni. Despite the heavy enemy anti-aircraft fire during the pursuit, Lieutenant Bordelon was able to attack and destroy this plane just before entry into the restricted zone. By his skill, courage and complete disregard for his personal safety, Lieutenant Bordelon successfully accomplished his mission. His actions and steadfast devotion to duty were at all times in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: Ruston, Louisiana
Home Town: Alexandria, Louisiana
Citation:
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star to Lieutenant Guy Pierre Bordelon (NSN: 0-278231), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Pilot of a Night Fighter Plane attached to Composing Squadron THREE (VC-3), serving with Fighter Squadron ONE HUNDRED FIFTY-TWO (VF-52), embarked in U.S.S. PRINCETON (CVS-37), while temporarily based ashore at Pyongtaek Airfield in South Korea on 1 July 1953. Flying in total darkness over mountainous terrain and through adverse weather conditions, Lieutenant Bordelon intercepted a flight of enemy planes in the vicinity of the Jaeju peninsula of North Korea. Utilizing his intercept radar, he exhibited superior ability and airmanship by maneuvering his plane into an attack position on each of two enemy Lavochkin Nine aircraft and destroyed them. The second enemy pilot attempted to escape into the restricted air space surround the Armistice Delegation Headquarters at Munsan-ni. Despite the heavy enemy anti-aircraft fire during the pursuit, Lieutenant Bordelon was able to attack and destroy this plane just before entry into the restricted zone. By his skill, courage and complete disregard for his personal safety, Lieutenant Bordelon successfully accomplished his mission. His actions and steadfast devotion to duty were at all times in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: Ruston, Louisiana
Home Town: Alexandria, Louisiana
BOUDREAUX, ROBERT O.
Citation:
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Hospitalman Third Class Robert O. Boudreaux (NSN: 4200025), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving as a Corpsman attached to a Marine Infantry Company of the FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 26 December 1952. Hospital Corpsman Third Class Boudreaux displayed outstanding courage, initiative and devotion to duty. While the raiding unit of which he was a member was advancing, it was subjected to a devastating barrage of automatic weapons and grenade fire. Although painfully wounded, he moved from one casualty to another, administering first aid and preparing them for evacuation. Expressing complete disregard for his personal safety, he aided in carrying an unconscious comrade to safety on the main line of resistance. Although weak from loss of blood, he refused aid for himself and continued in his efforts to aid and comfort the wounded. Hospital Corpsman Third Class Boudreaux's heroic actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
BRUCE, STERLING L.
Citation:
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Hospital Corpsman Second Class Sterling L. Bruce, Jr. (NSN: 3569231), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with a Marine Infantry Company of the FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces near Younodongpo-ri, Korea, on 20 September 1950. Hospital Corpsman Second Class Bruce was serving as a Company Corpsman when his company was attacked during the dim light of dawn by a numerically superior enemy force employing machine guns, automatic weapons, grenades and small arms and supported by four tanks. Observing a Marine become a casualty well forward of the company's front lines, he fearlessly exposed himself to the heavy enemy fire and proceeded to the side of the fallen man. With complete disregard for his own personal safety, he remained in the enemy fire-swept area giving aid to the casualty. While rendering aid, the wounded Marine succumbed and although subjected to enemy fire, he removed the Marine to a position of cover prior to making his way back to his own lines. His actions were an inspiration to all who observed him. Hospital Corpsman Second Class Bruce's heroic actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
BUMGARNER, PERRY E.
Citation:
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Hospitalman First Class Perry Eugene Bumgarner (NSN: 9316422), United States Naval Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving as a Medical Corpsman attached to a Marine Infantry Company of the FIRST Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in Korea, on 13 September 1951. When his platoon was pinned down under intense hostile mortar, automatic weapons and small arms fire during the attack against a strongly fortified enemy hill position, Hospitalman First Class Bumgarner courageously exposed himself to the heavy fire, moving quickly forward to render aid to the casualties. Although suffering painful shrapnel wounds during the engagement, he steadfastly and expertly continued to administer first aid and to carry the wounded to covered positions. Throughout the intense, two-hour battle, he refused to seek safety for himself, and was responsible for treating a total of twenty wounded men under heavy fire and saving many lives which undoubtedly would have been lost without prompt medical attention. By his selfless and heroic devotion to duty in the face of grave personal risk, Hospitalman First Class Bumgarner served to inspire all who observed him and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
BURRIER PAUL A.
Citation:
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Hospital Corpsman Second Class Paul Aloysius Burrier (NSN: 2486797), United States Naval Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as a Medical Corpsman attached to a Marine Infantry Company of the FIRST Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in action against enemy aggressor forces during the company's assault against a strongly-defended hill position in Korea, on 16 June 1951. When leading elements of the company suffered numerous casualties in the face of intense and accurate hostile automatic weapons and small-arms fire, Hospital Corpsman Second Class Burrier bravely rushed forward through the heavy enemy fire and immediately began to render first aid to the stricken men. Although the area was subjected to a devastating hostile mortar barrage, and some of the wounded were lying in exposed position within twenty yards of the enemy weapons, he gallantly remained in the fireswept area until all the casualties had been treated and carried to safety. By his marked courage, steadfast devotion to duty and selfless efforts in behalf of the wounded, Hospital Corpsman Second Class Burrier served to inspire all who observed him and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
BUSTARD, MELVIN E.
Citation:
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant Commander Melvin E. Bustard, Jr. (NSN: 0-127951), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action as Naval light forces participating in the engagement on 17 July 1951, and approximately fifty shore batteries subjecting the limited operation area of the friendly forces to intense crossfire from three directions. His zealous engaging the enemy in fierce combat coupled with his superb display of seamanship and professional ability, was instrumental in silencing several shore batteries whose fire was intense and accurate over a four and one half hour period. His utter disregard for his own personal safety in maneuvering his ships into position for close fire support with the units under heavy fire, coupled with his forceful judgment in subjecting his ships to possible injury in order that our forces could remain in Wonsan, was an inspiration to those who served under him. His leadership, coolness in the face of tremendous odds and zealous devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon himself and the United States Naval Service.
CARPENTER, VAIL P.
Citation:
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Chief Boatswain's Mate Vail P. Carpenter (NSN: 3930857), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and meritorious devotion to duty, as the senior surviving member of the crew of the U.S.S. MAGPIE (AMS-25) which was mined off the East Coast of Korea on 1 October 1950. Chief Boatswain's Mate Carpenter refused to leave his ship, which had been literally disintegrated by a mine, until he made absolutely certain that no living person remained on board, personally making a complete search of the rapidly sinking ship. Then by superb leadership and cool courage, Chief Boatswain's Mate Carpenter assisted all surviving personnel to a place of safety on board the one undamaged and overloaded life raft. Chief Boatswain's Mate Carpenter remained clear of the raft in order to avoid further overloading and was the last man to be pulled from the water during the subsequent rescue. The conduct displayed by Chief Boatswain's Mate Carpenter throughout reflect the highest credit upon himself and the United States Naval Service.
CARSANARO, CHARLES S.
Citation:
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Hospitalman Charles S. Carsanaro (NSN: 6066035), United States Navy, for gallantry in connection with military operations against an opposing armed force while serving as a Medical Corpsman with a Marine Infantry Company of the FIRST Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in action in Korea, on 27 September 1950. During the attack by his company, Hospitalman Carsanaro, serving as a Company Corpsman, observed a wounded Marine lying in an exposed enemy fire-swept area. Without regard for his own personal safety, he fearlessly exposed himself and ran to the side of the wounded Marine. On the way he was wounded himself in the thigh. Despite the pain, and suffering from loss of blood, he courageously continued and administered aid to the wounded Marine. Another Marine became a casualty and, disregarding his own wounds, Hospitalman Carsanaro went to his assistance. While treating the wounded Marine he was again wounded. Although suffering from two painful wounds, he pulled the wounded Marine to a covered position and submitted to aid himself. By his courageous actions and display of initiative all members of his company were inspired. Hospitalman Carsanaro's heroic actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Citation:
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant, Junior Grade Ernest Carl Castle (NSN: 0-512965), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action as Minesweeping Officer on board the U.S.S. CHATTERER (AMS-40), during sweeping operations in the Korean Theater on the night of 5 May 1952. When the CHATTERER was working close inshore within easy range of Communist guns, an enemy mine became fouled in the ship's port otter. The sea was high and the ship was rolling heavily, posing a grave threat to the safety of ship and crew. With great courage and complete disregard for his own personal safety, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Castle volunteered to clear the fouled mine. Because of the proximity of enemy shore batteries only the most limited amount of light could be provided for the operation. He worked the mine in close to the stern of the ship and found the severed cable entwined in the otter of the sweep gear. Despite the continuing pounding of the mine by the otter which threatened to explode it at any moment, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Castle hung precariously over the stern of the ship by his legs and cleared the mine having to fend it off several times with his hands to prevent it from striking the ship and exploding, thereby averting damages or possible sinking of his ship. His outstanding courage and steadfast devotion to duty was at all times in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Sioux Falls, South Dakota
CHUE, KENNETH
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The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Hospital Corpsman Second Class Kenneth Chue, United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving as a Medical Corpsman with a Marine Infantry Company of the FIRST Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in Korea, on 28 May 1952. Hospital Corpsman Second Class Chue displayed outstanding bravery and skill under enemy fire. When the company was engaged in the attack of a strongly defended enemy hill, he exposed himself to intense enemy small arms, automatic weapons and grenade fire to treat the wounded. When the other Corpsman was killed by a mine, Hospital Corpsman Second Class Chue successfully administered to the casualties and rallied the walking wounded to aid in the evacuation of the more seriously wounded. When the position had been taken, the company was subjected to intense enemy mortar and artillery fire, sustaining many more casualties. Unhesitatingly and without regard for his personal safety, he continually exposed himself to treat casualties until he was severely wounded in the hand. He calmly directed a comrade to bandage the shattered hand and administer morphine, then again proceeded to give medical assistance until the last of the wounded had been evacuated. At the aid station he went from man to man, giving them encouragement and aiding the doctors and other medical personnel, refusing treatment for himself until all others had been cared for. Hospital Corpsman Second Class Chue's courage and devotion to duty were directly responsible for the saving of many lives and were an inspiration to all who observed him. His courageous actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
CLARK, DANIEL W.
Citation:
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant (MC), [then Lieutenant, Junior Grade] Daniel W. Clark (NSN: 0-497706), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy as a Medical Officer attached to as Marine Infantry Battalion of the FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), during operations in Korea from 21 October to 3 November 1950. Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Clark displayed outstanding professional skill, ability and perseverance while serving as a Doctor in a Battalion Aid Station. On 3 November 1950, when his Battalion was subjected to a fanatical enemy attack by a numerically superior enemy force, he worked unceasingly under direct enemy fire, to aid the many casualties being brought into the Battalion Aid Station. Though the attackers were firing into the Battalion Aid Station, often wounding casualties for the second time, he with complete disregard for his own personal safety, continued to treat the patients in an expeditious and efficient manner when he was painfully wounded in the leg and refused evacuation until the great loss of blood necessitated his evacuation to the Regimental Aid Station. Upon arrival there, and seeing the pressing need for medical attention by his fellow wounded, he forced himself, regardless of his own personal suffering, to assist in the treatment of the wounded. On his knees unable to stand, he administered plasma to the other patients and again refused evacuation until the last of the patients were evacuated the morning of 5 November 1950. By his great personal courage and unselfish service, he materially assisted in saving the lives of many wounded Marines serving as an inspiration for all who observed him. Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Clark's heroic actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Citation:
The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star (Army Award) to Lieutenant Eugene Franklin Clark (NSN: 0-329449), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving with Special Operations Group, attached to G-2, Headquarters of Commander in Chief, Far East Command, in action against enemy forces in the Korean area prior to the amphibious assault on Inchon, 1 to 15 September 1950. Responsible for carrying out a task entailing great risk, Lieutenant Clark personally organized and led a mission to obtain vital intelligence information in an area under enemy control. By his aggressive leadership and personal valor, he inspired his men to heroic and determined efforts in achieving the objective, overcoming extreme difficulties and active enemy interference in time to accomplish the assigned mission with completely successful results. Lieutenant Clark's timely and accurate reports contributed directly to the success of the Inchon landing.
Born: Redfield, South Dakota
Home Town: California
Citation:
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant (MC), [then Lieutenant, Junior Grade] Daniel W. Clark (NSN: 0-497706), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy as a Medical Officer attached to as Marine Infantry Battalion of the FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), during operations in Korea from 21 October to 3 November 1950. Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Clark displayed outstanding professional skill, ability and perseverance while serving as a Doctor in a Battalion Aid Station. On 3 November 1950, when his Battalion was subjected to a fanatical enemy attack by a numerically superior enemy force, he worked unceasingly under direct enemy fire, to aid the many casualties being brought into the Battalion Aid Station. Though the attackers were firing into the Battalion Aid Station, often wounding casualties for the second time, he with complete disregard for his own personal safety, continued to treat the patients in an expeditious and efficient manner when he was painfully wounded in the leg and refused evacuation until the great loss of blood necessitated his evacuation to the Regimental Aid Station. Upon arrival there, and seeing the pressing need for medical attention by his fellow wounded, he forced himself, regardless of his own personal suffering, to assist in the treatment of the wounded. On his knees unable to stand, he administered plasma to the other patients and again refused evacuation until the last of the patients were evacuated the morning of 5 November 1950. By his great personal courage and unselfish service, he materially assisted in saving the lives of many wounded Marines serving as an inspiration for all who observed him. Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Clark's heroic actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: Mount Vernon, New York
Home Town: Rye, New York
COLE, CHARLES W.
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The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Ensign Charles W. Cole (NSN: 0-393932), United States Navy, for gallantry and intrepidity in the rescue of personnel and in damage control work on board U.S.S. BRUSH (DD-745) on 26 September 1950, when the BRUSH struck an enemy mine in North Korean waters. Ensign Cole displayed exceptional courage in entering smoke and fume filled compartments to determine the extent of damage and in aiding to his utmost the evacuation of personal casualties. He displayed exceptional tenacity at the scene of the fire until it was extinguished, combating the most adverse conditions; and in the control of flooding, which, if unchecked, may have resulted in the loss of the ship. He remained in the damaged area for a period of two days. His valorous actions directly contributed to the prompt medical attention received by wounded men and to the effective control of the damage sustained. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
CONNOR, JOSEPH H.
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The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Hospital Corpsman Third Class Joseph H. Connor (NSN: 4227737), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with a Marine Infantry Company of the FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 25 February 1953. Serving as a Platoon Corpsman, Hospital Corpsman Third Class Connor displayed outstanding courage, initiative and devotion to duty. As the unit of which he was a member commenced a raiding action against a strongly fortified position, he was painfully wounded but refused treatment and continued with the assault to the objective area. Expressing complete disregard for his personal safety, he fearlessly moved about in the face of intense enemy mortar, grenade, machine gun and small arms fire in order to locate, treat and evacuate casualties. During the action, he was wounded a second time but again refused medical aid and continued rendering assistance to his fallen comrades. After withdrawing to friendly lines, he personally insured that each casualty had been treated before permitting himself to be evacuated. Hospital Corpsman Third Class Connor's indomitable spirit and gallant and courageous actions served s an inspiration to all who observed him and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
COOKE, KENNETH J.
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The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Boatswain's Mate Third Class Kenneth J. Cooke (NSN: 3645125), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while attached to U.S.S. HENRICO (APA-45), as Coxswain of an assault boat during the amphibious assault against Inchon on 15 September 1950, in an area subjected to enemy gunfire. After successfully discharging his troops and after backing clear of the beach, he observed that one or more of a small group of Marines near the seawall under heavy rifle and machine gun fire had been wounded. Without regard for personal danger, he again beached his boat, took on board the wounded Marine and transported him to safety and medical care. His heroic actions above and beyond the call of duty and his outstanding courage were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
CORCORAN, WILLIAM L.
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The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Gunner's Second Class William L. Corcoran (NSN: 7615853), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Mount Captain of Mount Number One of the U.S.S. MANSFIELD (DD-728), on 30 September 1950, when the MANSFIELD struck an enemy mine in North Korean waters. Gunner's Mate Second Class Corcoran displayed outstanding courage and intrepidity in evacuating his wounded shipmates from the Chief Petty Officer's mess and lower handling room. In entering compartments filled with fumes, smoke and debris to rescue his wounded shipmates, Gunner's Mate Second Class Corcoran demonstrated outstanding courage. His tenacity and bold spirit were evidenced by his tireless efforts in engaging in the daring rescue until he collapsed from his own wounds. Gunner's Mate Second Class Corcoran well knew the dangers of entering these damaged compartments and voluntarily risked his own life in an area of possible holocaust in order to effect the rescue of his wounded men. His courage in the face of danger contributed to the timely medical attention that his men received so that none of the twenty-eight injured died of their wounds. Gunner's Mate Second Class Corcoran's fearless action and intrepid courage were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
CORRIGAN, JOHN P.
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The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Hospital Corpsman Third Class John P. Corrigan (NSN: 7524265), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with a Marine Infantry Company of the FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 23 September 1950. Hospital Corpsman Third Class Corrigan acting as Company Corpsman, repeatedly and fearlessly exposed himself to intense enemy small arms and machine gun fire in order to aid and evacuate the many wounded. With utter disregard for his personal safety he refused to search for covered approaches to the wounded and moved directly from one casualty to the next through heavy enemy fire, administering aid. He courageously aided the wounded quickly and successfully and prepared them for evacuation to the aid station. Hospital Corpsman Third Class Corrigan's heroic actions and initiative were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
CURPINSKI, ROBERT B.
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The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Hospitalman Robert B. Curpinski, United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with a Marine Engineer Company of the FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 2 December 1950. Serving as a Medical Corpsman assigned to a platoon assisting in the defense of a strategic position. Hospitalman Curpinski displayed outstanding courage and initiative in the performance of his duties when the unit was attacked during hours of darkness by a numerically superior enemy force. Fearlessly and with complete disregard for his personal safety exposing himself to withering enemy automatic weapons and small arms fire, he courageously moved continuously through the position rendering aid to the casualties and removing them to covered positions. When the platoon was ordered to break contact with the enemy, he unhesitatingly returned to the area, despite the fact that the enemy had actually penetrated the positions, and aided in carrying two wounded comrades to safety. His great personal bravery and outstanding devotion to duty were an inspiration to all who observed him. Hospitalman Curpinski's heroic actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
CURRIN, JOHN F.
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The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star (Army Award) to Lieutenant, Junior Grade (MC) John F. Currin (NSN: 0-491741), United States Navy, for gallantry in action near Ajongdon, Korea, on 25 April 1951. At this time the 2d Battalion, 7th Infantry Regiment, 3d Infantry Division, was suddenly attacked by a numerically superior enemy force and subjected to a withering barrage of small arms, automatic weapons, mortar and grenade fire. With utter disregard for his own personal safety, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Currin voluntarily exposed himself to the hail of enemy fire and established a forward aid station, ministered to the wounded and evacuated them to safety. He personally evacuated eleven stricken men under intense fire, carrying and shielding them with his own body. Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Currin's gallantry, courage and outstanding devotion to duty reflects great credit upon himself and the military service.
DAVIES, HENRY E.
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The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant, Junior Grade Henry E. Davies, Jr. (NSN: 0-478746), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action as Executive Officer of the U.S.S. PIRATE (AM-275) during minesweeping operations in densely mined areas off Wonsan, Korea, on 12 October 1950. After his ship had struck a mine and having been ordered over the side by his Commanding Officer, he observed our men in the water all of whom were either wounded or dazed. Despite the fact that the vessel's list was increasing rapidly and danger of her capsizing was imminent he towed them clear and assisted them in reaching a life raft. Then, with complete disregard for the enemy gunfire and his own personal safety, he boarded a passing boat to aid in the evacuation of wounded men from a stricken sister ship. His courageous actions minimized the loss of life and contributed materially to the successful clearance of mine free channels and anchorage areas off Wonsan. His loyalty and steadfast devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
DEFOREST, DON C.
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The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant Commander Don C. DeForest (NSN: 0-83052), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Task Group 95.6 while engaged in operations in enemy mined waters and in areas subjected to enemy gunfire during the period 10 to 31 October 1950. When a minesweeper was mined in an adjacent area he took personal charge of a rescue boat and proceeded into heavily mined waters and effected the rescue of all surviving personnel. At a later date he proceeded alone into an area not cleared of enemy snipers and obtained intelligence information essential to the operations then being conducted. His inspiring leadership and professional competence contributed directly to the successful accomplishment of the mission of the Task Group and to the successful clearance of mine free channels and anchorage areas off Wonsan, Korea. His loyalty and steadfast devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
DENNEN, PHILLIP C.
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The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star (Army Award) to Lieutenant, Junior Grade (MC) Phillip C. Dennen (NSN: 0-497748), United States Navy, for gallantry in action against the enemy near Uijongbu, Korea, on 24 March 1951. On this date, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Dennen, a Medical Officer accompanying a tank-engineer task force, voluntarily sprinted a distance of approximately eight hundred yards over a mined area through intense enemy fire to go to the aid of an engineer who received shrapnel wounds during an enemy mortar barrage. With complete disregard for his own personal safety, and despite the increasing intensity of hostile fire, Lieutenant Dennen rendered valuable medical assistance and did much to alleviate the discomfort of the wounded soldier, who was subsequently evacuated in a tank to safety. Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Dennen's gallant actions and selfless devotion to duty reflect great credit upon himself and exemplify the high traditions of the United States Naval Service.
*DOERR, CHARLES W. (KIA)
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The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Hospitalman Charles William Doerr (NSN: 3655505), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as a Corpsman attached to Company A, 1st Battalion, 7th Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea, on 6 October 1952. Volunteering to accompany a rifle squad on a mission to reinforce an infantry platoon during an attack on a strongly defended enemy outpost, Hospitalman Doerr unhesitatingly exposed himself to an intense mortar and artillery barrage to administer first aid to the numerous casualties struck down by the initial burst of fire. Mortally wounded by fragments from a bursting enemy shell while attending a wounded Marine, Hospitalman Doerr, by his outstanding courage, daring initiative and selfless efforts in behalf of his comrades, served to inspire all who observed him and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
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The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Commander Clarence Thomas Doss, Jr. (NSN: 0-73538), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Commander LSR Division ELEVEN, in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea, during the amphibious assault against Inch'on on 15 September 1950. Successfully navigating the extremely hazardous and difficult approaches to Inch'on, Commander Doss directed the bombing operations of his unit while under close-range fire from enemy shore batteries. An able and aggressive leader, he maintained his ships on their assigned stations and effectively carried out a devastating bombardment attack against enemy shore installations in support of friendly landing forces, thereby contributing materially to the success of his Division in inflicting heavy damage upon the enemy and in facilitating the landing of assault troops. His outstanding leadership, professional skill and steadfast devotion to duty throughout reflect the highest credit upon Commander Doss and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Cotton Plant, Arkansas
DOUCETTE, LAWRENCE J.
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The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Hospitalman Lawrence Joseph Doucette (NSN: 7527779), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with a Navy Medical Company attached to the FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 21 September 1950. Serving as a Medical Corpsman, Hospitalman Doucette was returning from the front lines with an ambulance load of casualties when his vehicle was subjected to withering enemy automatic weapons fire from a cleverly concealed position. Quickly removing the wounded men under his care to a covered position, he then fearlessly and with complete disregard for his own personal safety assaulted the enemy position single-handedly, killing four of the enemy with well-placed rounds from his carbine. His great personal bravery and courageous devotion to duty saved his comrades from further injury or death. Hospitalman Doucette's heroic actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Reading, Massachusetts
DOWDING, FRED Y.
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The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Hospitalman Third Class Fred Y. Dowding, United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving as a Medical Corpsman with a Marine Infantry Company of the FIRST Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in Korea, on 3 February 1953. Hospital Corpsman Third Class Dowding displayed outstanding courage, initiative and devotion to duty. He volunteered to serve with a support and evacuation team directed to aid a company-size raiding party assigned the extremely hazardous mission of attacking a strongly fortified hostile position. As the platoon moved forward to a point at the base of the objective, casualties were sustained immediately. Expressing complete disregard for his personal safety, he gallantly exposed himself to murderous enemy artillery, mortar and small arms fire for a period of four hours in order to render medical aid to numerous seriously injured men. Exhibiting remarkable courage, he dauntlessly moved from one position to another traversing the entire hostile area locating wounded, treating casualties and skillfully supervising their evacuation. He worked tirelessly and courageously under the withering hostile fire in order to carry his stricken comrades to what little cover was available. His intrepid efforts did not cease until every wounded Marine had been evacuated from the devastated area and all of the dead had been recovered. After skillfully discharging his responsibilities which were instrumental in saving numerous lives, he was the last man to leave the area which was still being subjected to heavy enemy fire. Hospital Corpsman Third Class Dowding's gallant and courageous actions combined with his indomitable spirit served as an inspiration to all who observed him and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
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The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star (Army Award) to Rear Admiral James Henry Doyle (NSN: 0-20455), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action as Commander, Attack Force, Joint Task Force SEVEN, United Nations Command, in action in the Inchon-Seoul operation during the period 15 September to 21 September 1950. His actions contributed materially to the success of this operation and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service.
Home Town: New York, New York
DUFFIN, JAMES R.
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The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Hospitalman James Robert Duffin (NSN: 3028923), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as a Company Corpsman, attached to Company E, 1st Battalion, 1st Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in action against enemy aggressor forces near Koto-ri, Korea on 29 November 1950. When his company was subjected to a strong attack by a numerically superior enemy force, Hospitalman Duffin repeatedly exposed himself to heavy hostile small-arms, machine-gun and mortar fire to administer aid to the many wounded Marines. Moving from position to position, he carried two wounded Marines to a protected area and rendered medical assistance. While crossing an open, enemy fire-swept area to aid a third casualty, he was mortally wounded by hostile automatic weapons fire. By his courageous actions in saving others at the cost of his own life, Hospitalman Duffin served to inspire all members of his unit. His fortitude, daring initiative and steadfast devotion to duty throughout were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
DUFFY, GILMAN D.
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The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Hospital Corpsman Third Class Gilman D. Duffy, United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with a Marine Infantry Company of the FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 19 April 1953. Serving as a Corpsman, Hospital Corpsman Third Class Duffy displayed outstanding courage, initiative and devotion to duty. He was a member of a unit that was effecting a relief of a vital combat outpost position located far forward of the main line of resistance. During the relief, an enemy mortar round landed causing several casualties. Although critically wounded, he courageously began applying first aid to the wounds of his injured comrades. Expressing complete disregard for his personal condition, he refused medical attention and continued administering aid until he was again painfully wounded and rendered unconscious. Hospital Corpsman Third Class Duffy's gallant and courageous actions combined with his indomitable spirit served as an inspiration to all who observed him and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
EMERY, EDWARD J.
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The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Hospital Corpsman Third Class Edward J. Emery, Jr., United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving as a Medical Corpsman attached to a Marine Artillery Battery of the FIRST Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in Korea, on 2 December 1950. At approximately 0100, a provisional platoon consisting of infantry and artillery personnel, to which Hospital Corpsman Third Class Emery was attached and serving as a Corpsman, was attacked by a numerically superior enemy force. During the attack, which lasted about five hours, he continually moved among the casualties and skillfully administered first aid. Fearlessly and heedless of his own personal safety, he repeatedly exposed himself to enemy fire to search for and aid the casualties. Although he received painful wounds and was forced to crawl among the casualties, he courageously continued to administer first aid until all the casualties had been cared for. Suffering from frozen limbs, he placed a wounded Marine on his back and crawled to the rear area to obtain medical attention. His display of courage and initiative were an inspiration to all members of his platoon. Hospital Corpsman Third Class Emery's heroic actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
*ESTRADA, ARMAND E. (KIA)
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The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Hospital Corpsman Third Class Armand E. Estrada (NSN: 9894198), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with Company B, First Battalion, First Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 10 April 1953. Serving as Company Corpsman, Hospital Corpsman Third Class Estrada displayed outstanding courage, initiative and devotion to duty. He was a member of a unit that conducted a raid on a strongly fortified enemy position far forward of the main line of resistance. Approximately 200 yards from the objective, the raiding party was subjected to a devastating hail of hostile small arms and mortar fire. Expressing complete disregard for his personal safety, he refused evacuation and courageously moved among his injured comrades in order to administer medical aid. Although painfully wounded, he refused to remain behind and fearlessly continued toward the objective. When approaching the enemy installation, he was again wounded and rendered unable to walk. Although suffering intense pain as a result of his multiple wounds, he competently directed the removal of the other stricken men before allowing himself to be evacuated. Later, as a result of his wounds, he died gallantly giving his life for his country. Hospital Corpsman Third Class Estrada's intrepid and courageous actions served as an inspiration to all who observed him and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
EVANS, ANDREW H.
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The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Hospital Corpsman Third Class Andrew H. Evans (NSN: 4168782), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with a Marine Infantry Company of the FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 15 - 16 September 1952. Serving as Senior Corpsman, Hospital Corpsman Third Class Evans displayed outstanding courage, initiative and devotion to duty. He voluntarily accompanied a night reconnaissance patrol forward of the main line of resistance. When one of the patrol members accidentally set off an enemy land mine and although painfully wounded himself, he administered immediate medical assistance to five wounded Marines. Hampered by total darkness and the enemy forces entrenched nearby, he skillfully prepared the casualties for evacuation and personally assisted a seriously wounded Marine in the difficult and exhausting return trip through flooded rice paddies to friendly lines. Upon returning to the company aid station, he continued his duties, refusing medical aid for himself until the other casualties had been treated. His indomitable spirit, courage and selfless devotion to duty were instrumental in saving the lives of at least two of his comrades. Hospital Corpsman Third Class Evans' gallant and courageous actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
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The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Rear Admiral Edward Coyle Ewen (NSN: 0-57030), United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the Light Aircraft Carrier U.S.S. INDEPENDENCE (CVL-22), in action against the enemy during September and October 1944. Expertly commanding the INDEPENDENCE in the first night carrier operations in the Pacific, Rear Admiral Ewen brought to bear the full fighting strength of his ship and air groups and, through his foresight and tactical ability, directed them in destroying hostile lead attack planes and airborne trackers to break up enemy air attacks before they could develop. His courage and leadership while fighting his ship as an independent unit during long periods of sustained action reflect the highest credit on Rear Admiral Ewen, his gallant officers and men and the United States Naval Service.
Born: Portsmouth, New Hampshire
Home Town: Dorchester, Massachusetts
EWING, TROY G.
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The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Hospital Corpsman Third Class Troy G. Ewing (NSN: 6315892), United States Naval Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity against the enemy while serving as a Corpsman with a Marine Rifle Company of the FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 10 June 1951. Hospital Corpsman Third Class Ewing was advancing with the company at about 2200 when it was hit by withering small arms, machine gun and grenade fire. Heedless of the danger, he continually exposed himself as he moved through fire-swept areas searching out and treating wounded Marines. When he, himself, suffered a severe wound, he refused evacuation, and returned again and again to within hand grenade range of the enemy to carry the wounded to safety. He continued to display these outstanding qualities of courage and devotion to duty until 0300 the next morning, when his company commander ordered him to the rear for treatment of his wounds. Hospital Corpsman Third Class Ewing's courageous actions were an inspiration to all who observed him, and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
FELICIA,FRANCIS G.
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The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Hospitalman Francis G. Felicia (NSN: 7309533), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving as a Medical Corpsman attached to a Marine Infantry Company of the FIRST Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in Korea, on 9 August 1952. With the platoon pinned down by intense mortar and automatic weapons fire delivered by the enemy at extremely close range, Hospitalman Felicia bravely moved from one position to another to administer first aid and to assist in the evacuation of the wounded. Although painfully wounded by a shell fragment as he moved forward under a barrage of enemy hand grenades, he succeeded in removing a wounded Marine to safety and in rendering aid to the stricken man, remaining at his post for approximately five hours and administering medical treatment to an estimated fifty casualties. By his courageous initiative, marked fortitude and selfless devotion to duty, Hospitalman Felicia served to inspire all who observed him and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
FLYNN, EDWARD P.
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The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Hospitalman Francis G. Felicia (NSN: 7309533), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving as a Medical Corpsman attached to a Marine Infantry Company of the FIRST Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in Korea, on 9 August 1952. With the platoon pinned down by intense mortar and automatic weapons fire delivered by the enemy at extremely close range, Hospitalman Felicia bravely moved from one position to another to administer first aid and to assist in the evacuation of the wounded. Although painfully wounded by a shell fragment as he moved forward under a barrage of enemy hand grenades, he succeeded in removing a wounded Marine to safety and in rendering aid to the stricken man, remaining at his post for approximately five hours and administering medical treatment to an estimated fifty casualties. By his courageous initiative, marked fortitude and selfless devotion to duty, Hospitalman Felicia served to inspire all who observed him and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
FOLEY, WARREN J.
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The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Boatswain's Mate Third Class Warren J. Foley (NSN: 2255899), United States Navy, for heroic action and devotion to duty while attached to Underwater Demolition Team THREE and serving with Special Operations Group, Amphibious Group ONE during operations against the enemy at Yosu, Korea, on the night of 4 - 5 August 1950. Acting as an advance scout for a demolition raiding party, Boatswain's Mate Third Class Foley swam ashore unarmed to reconnoiter the objective area about 45 miles behind enemy lines. He was then ordered by the officer in charge to return to the raiding party assembly area to direct it to the objective. While returning to the raiding party assembly area, Boatswain's Mate Third Class Foley saw that the Officer in Charge was trapped by an armed group of the enemy. He immediately obtained a submachine gun and voluntarily attempted to return to protect and assist this officer. In making this attempt, he exposed himself to direct enemy fire and sustained wounds in his hands and leg. His bravery and outstanding devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
FREEMAN, JOHN B.
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The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Sonarman First Class John B. Freeman (NSN: 2249200), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in the rescue of wounded personnel aboard the U.S.S. BRUSH (DD-745), on 26 September 1950, when the BRUSH struck an enemy mine in North Korean waters. Sonarman First Class Freeman displayed exceptional courage and disregard for his own safety by entering the Magazine, Mess Hall, and Sonar Room in the damage area of the ship to rescue personnel through fire, smoke, fuel oil, and debris. He returned again and again to these spaces until he had removed all personnel in the face of electrical fires, heavy smoke and fumes. Sonarman First Class Freeman's courageous actions, at the risk of his own life, directly contributed to the prompt medical attention received by the wounded and their subsequent recover, and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
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The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Lieutenant, Junior Grade Edward Ivan Frey, Jr. (NSN: 0-384274), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while attached to and serving with Underwater Demolition Team ONE, engaged in beach reconnaissance on the west coast of Korea. Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Frey particularly distinguished himself in the face of the enemy. Serving as Officer-in-Charge of a UDT beach party which was attacked by guerrilla elements, he heroically organized and directed the withdrawal of his party from the beach. While under hostile fire, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Frey although armed only with a pistol, returned the enemy's fire in order to allow his unit to enter the water and drag their rubber boat toward an LCVP approaching the beach. After expending his ammunition he assisted in swimming another member of his unit to the pick-up area. In exposing himself to secure a line from the LCVP to the rubber boat, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Frey was wounded about the face by shrapnel. Despite his wounds he coolly continued to counsel his men and direct them to safer locations until such time as he was hit again and mortally wounded. His outstanding bravery, gallantry and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: June 8, 1923
Hometown: McKeesport, Pennsylvania
FULLER, ROBERT C.
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The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant Robert C. Fuller, Jr. (NSN: 0-432656), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy during mine sweeping operations at Wonsan in the Korean theater during the period 10 to 31 October 1950. As Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. PARTRIDGE (AMS-31), and while sweeping enemy mine fields in the face of heavy fire from enemy coast defense batteries, by his inspiring leadership and professional competence, he contributed directly to the efficient operation of his ship and the successful clearance of mine free channels and anchorage areas off Wonsan.
GADKE, WILLIAM L.
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The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Hospitalman First Class William L. Gadke, United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving as a Medical Corpsman attached to a Marine Infantry Company of the FIRST Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in Korea, during the period 25 to 26 September 1950. Hospitalman First Class Gadke was serving as a corpsman when his battalion was attacking through the streets of Seoul, Korea, against a well-entrenched and concealed enemy force who were firing intense small arms and machine gun fire into the battalion zone of action. He repeatedly exposed himself to this fire, without regard for his own personal safety, as he courageously volunteered to evacuate wounded Marines wherever they were and administer to them vitally needed aid. When the enemy infantry commenced a determined counterattack in force that night supported by tanks and artillery, Hospitalman First Class Gadke continued with courageous disregard for his own personal safety by voluntarily forming a detail to carry much needed machine gun ammunition to a forward gun. He displayed a high degree of initiative and leadership as he adeptly and courageously led the detail through the heavy enemy fire. This action was above and beyond the call of duty as a Corpsman. Hospitalman First Class Gadke's actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
GARY, STANLEY P.
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The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant, Junior Grade Stanley Platt Gary (NSN: 0-485174), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy during mine sweeping operations at Wonsan in the Korean Theater during the period 10 to 31 October 1950. As Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. MOCKING BIRD (AMS-27), and while sweeping enemy mine fields in the face of heavy fire from enemy coast defense batteries, by his inspiring leadership and professional competence, he contributed directly to the efficient operation of his ship and the successful clearance of mine free channels and anchorage areas off Wonsan. His actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
GRAHAM, WILLIAM W.
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The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Hospitalman William W. Graham (NSN: 5687256), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with a Marine Infantry Company of the FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 3 December 1950. Hospitalman Graham was serving as a Corpsman when his company was assaulting a hill near Yudam-ni, Korea. He voluntarily and without hesitation, left his covered position and exposed himself to the heavy enemy small arms, machine gun and mortar fire and made numerous trips to enemy fire-swept areas to five aid and evacuate the wounded Marines. With complete disregard for his own personal safety, he continued to expose himself to the heavy enemy fire to move from position to position to search for and evacuate the wounded Marines. His actions were an inspiration to all members of his company and undoubtedly saved many casualties from receiving additional wounds and suffering from extreme exposure to the sub-zero temperatures. Hospitalman Graham's heroic actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
GREGORY, PAUL J.
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The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Seaman Apprentice Paul Johnson Gregory (NSN: 9884425), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy in the Korean Theater on 15 September 1950. While a member of a landing craft during assault operations on enemy beaches, Seaman Gregory returned with the coxswain of the boat to the beach and assisted in rescuing from a group undergoing sniper fire a wounded Marine and returned him to safety. His daring initiative and courage were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
GIFFIN, CORNELIUS
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The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant, Junior Grade (Chaplain Corps) Cornelius Griffin (NSN: 0-522437), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving as Chaplain for the Second Battalion, Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea during the period 2 November through 8 November 1950. On 3 November at 0130 the enemy conducted a fierce coordinated night attack against elements of the Seventh Marines. During the height of the attack Chaplain Griffin continually exposed himself to heavy enemy fire as he moved among the troops lending encouragement. His very presence and display of courage inspired the men about him and aided materially in a rapid consolidation of the lines. During the later morning of 3 November the same units of the Seventh Marines were subjected to heavy small arms fire. Chaplain Griffin left the comparative security of the battalion sick bay where he was rendering aid to the wounded and moved back to the front lines. Here he repeatedly exposed himself without regard for his personal safety to render what aid he could to the men wounded in the attack. Chaplain Griffin served as a veritable pillar of strength for the men of the organization and served as an unforgettable inspiration to all who observed him. His knowledge, use of first aid, coupled with the spiritual comfort he lent, proved to be invaluable assets to the organization. Chaplain Griffin's heroic actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
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The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant [then Lieutenant, Junior Grade] Nicholas Grkovic (NSN: 0-447427/1100), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Commanding Officer of the Minesweeper U.S.S. KITE (AMS-22), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea from 10 to 31 October 1950. A highly skilled and resolute officer, Lieutenant Grkovic boldly directed his ship in the hazardous task of sweeping enemy mines from channels and anchorage areas off Wonsan in the face of heavy fire from hostile coast defense batteries. By his inspiring leadership throughout this intensive action, he contributed materially to the ultimate success of the operation. His marked courage, expert seamanship and steadfast devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon Lieutenant Grkovic and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Salmon, Idaho
*GUIVER, JAY L. (KIA)
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The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Hospitalman Third Class Jay Leslie Guiver (NSN: 2604348), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as a Corpsman with Headquarters and Service Company, 2d Battalion, 5th Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 26 and 27 March 1953. Volunteering to accompany a platoon far forward of the main line of resistance to assist in evacuating the casualties sustained during a counterattack on an enemy-held outpost, Hospitalman Third Class Guiver bravely exposed himself to intense hostile artillery and mortar fire upon reaching the devastated area and administered timely medical aid to the wounded. Skillfully directing teams to search the area for casualties, he instructed his comrades in the treatment of the stricken men until the first evacuation unit had departed, and rushed to the forward elements of the action in the face of deadly enemy small-arms fire to carry the wounded to a sheltered position for medical assistance. Although thrown to the ground by the bursts of hostile rounds landing nearby and suffering from shock and concussion, he steadfastly refused to be evacuated and continued to administer aid to the wounded. By his exceptional courage, marked fortitude and selfless efforts in behalf of his comrades, Hospitalman Third Class Guiver served to inspire all who observed him and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
HAINES, WILLIAM D.
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The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Engineman First Class William D. Haines, United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while attached to and serving on board the U.S.S. PARTRIDGE (AMS-31) on 2 February 1951. When that ship struck an enemy mine while engaged in minesweeping operations in the Korean Combat Zone, two men were seriously injured and pinned down in the wreckage of the pilot house. Despite the short time this type of vessel usually stayed afloat after striking a mine he quickly climbed the wreckage, and with the aid of another, successfully rescued two men. Not until the vessel began to sink rapidly did he abandon ship. By his aggressive initiative coupled with complete disregard for his own safety, Engineman First Class Haines contributed greatly to the safety of his shipmates, and his zealous devotion to duty was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
*HAMMETT, WARREN R. (KIA) 1st Award
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The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Hospitalman Warren Rod Hammett (NSN: 9959723), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with a Marine Infantry Battalion of the FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 30 September 1950. During an enemy night attack on his unit, Hospitalman Hammett acting as a Company Corpsman, fearlessly and courageously crawled across open ground infested by enemy grenade and machine gun fire to administer aid to several of the wounded. While on his voluntary mission and after administering aid to several of the wounded he was mortally wounded. By his heroic actions several of the wounded were given aid much earlier than would otherwise have been possible, resulting in saving several lives. His conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty were an inspiration to all men and contributed in large measure to his company repulsing the enemy attack and regaining the fire superiority. Hospitalman Hammett's heroic actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Jefferson, Georgia
*HAMMETT, WARREN R. (KIA) 2nd Award
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The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Hospitalman Warren Rod Hammett (NSN: 9959723), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with a Marine Infantry Company of the FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), as a Corpsman attached to a heavy machine gun section which was supporting the Infantry Company, when the enemy launched a sustained and close-in attack on the company positions on 27 September 1950 in Korea. When he learned that many casualties were occurring some distance from his position, he voluntarily and with complete disregard for his own personal safety, moved forward through heavy enemy small arms and machine gun fire to administer aid to the casualties. In the thickest of the fight, he was heard calling out that he was a Corpsman and was searching for the wounded. On four separate occasions he went forward in this manner and was successful on each trip to find, administer aid and assist in evacuating casualties. Later in the action, while performing his duties, he was mortally wounded by enemy mortar fire and heroically gave his life for his country. His aggressive actions materially aided the wounded Marines in receiving medical aid much earlier than would otherwise have been possible, resulting in saving several lives. His conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty were an inspiration to all men and contributed in large measure to his company repulsing the enemy attack and regaining the fire superiority. Hospitalman Hammett's heroic actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Jefferson, Georgia
HARCOURT, CARL C.
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The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Hospital Corpsman Third Class Carl Craig Harcourt (NSN: 3516850), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with Company E, Second Battalion, Fifth Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 24 February 1952. Serving as a Corpsman, Hospital Corpsman Third Class Harcourt displayed outstanding initiative and courage during an intense enemy mortar barrage. With complete disregard for his own safety he left his covered position to go to the aid of a wounded Marine. While running to the wounded man he was killed by enemy mortar fire, gallantly giving his life for his country. His selfless devotion to duty was an inspiration to all who observed him. Hospital Corpsman Third Class Harcourt's courageous actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
HATHAWAY, JACK W.
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The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Seaman Jack W. Hathaway (NSN: 2807918), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action as the Bow Hood and member of an assault landing craft crew of the LCVP-18, attached to U.S.S. SEMINOLE (AKA-104), during the amphibious assault against Inchon, Korea, on 15 September 1950. Without order in the face of enemy rifle and mortar fire he left the relative security of his boat and climbed the seawall to assist heavily burdened Marine troops to disembark rapidly, despite their urging that he jump down into the boat for protection. At about the time the last Marine disembarked, he was painfully wounded in his right leg and had to be lifted into the boat. He assisted materially in the successful landing of troops from his boat and contributed directly to the success of the operation. His daring initiative and courage were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
HAYES, MARK
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The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Dentalman Mark Hayes, Jr., United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with a Marine Amphibious Tractor Battalion of the FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 7 November 1950. Serving as a Corpsman in a train guard detail, which was engaged in a fire fight with numerically superior enemy forces, to protect a supply train and in support of a small United States Army signal unit trapped by enemy fire, Dentalman Hayes, hearing the army units call for "Corpsman," voluntarily and fearlessly attempted to cross an open enemy fire-swept area. Gathering several Marine volunteers about him, he led them across the open field and during this action, one Marine in the party was seriously wounded by enemy small arms fire. Dentalman Hayes with complete disregard for his own personal safety, moved to the side of the wounded Marine, administered first aid and remained with the patient to assist in evacuating him to a covered position. His aggressive actions and coolness under fire were an inspiration to all who observed him and undoubtedly prevented the wounded Marine from receiving further wounds. Dentalman Hayes' heroic actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
HAZELTON, JAMES
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The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star (Army Award) to Hospital Corpsman First Class James Hazelton (NSN: 3293263), United States Navy, for gallantry in action while serving as a Medical Corpsman attached to the Fifth Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea by rescuing two wounded men from an area covered by heavy enemy fire on the morning of 15 September 1950, on the Inchon side of Green Beach of Wolmi-do Island. The enemy was well entrenched in two pillboxes and had the company pinned down by rifle and grenade fire. The Marine riflemen were forced to take cover at the rear of the two pillboxes. Word was received at the aid station that there were two wounded Marines lying between the pillboxes. Hospital Corpsman First Class Hazleton, with complete disregard for his personal safety dashed across an exposed line of fire and dived into the hole where the wounded men were. The enemy fired on him repeatedly and threw grenades in his direction. After aiding the wounded, one of whom was bleeding copiously, he returned grenade fire to the mouth of one pillbox, in an attempt to clear a path for evacuation. Hospital Corpsman First Class Hazelton crawled over the brink, dragging one of the wounded with him and then returned under fire with a litter to remove the second man. This display of gallantry reflects great credit upon himself and upon the United States Naval Service.
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The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Commander Edwin Harvey Headland (NSN: 0-75074), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. MANSFIELD (DD-728), during the assault on Inchon, Korea, 13 - 15 September 1950. He navigated his ship through an enemy mine field, engaged enemy shore batteries at close range, and contributed greatly to the successful landings at Inchon.
Home Town: Minot, North Dakota
HEERSMA, JAMES R.
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The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star (Army Award) to Lieutenant, Junior Grade (MC) James R. Heersma (NSN: 0-496123), United States Navy, for gallantry in action against the enemy near Chi-Dong, Korea, on 26 April 1951. On this date, during the initial phase of the enemy offensive, the 58th Armored Field Artillery Battalion, 3d Infantry Division, was withdrawing to a new position, moving along the Main Supply route in column. Lieutenant Heersma, Battalion Surgeon, was tailing the column in an ambulance. In the vicinity of Chi-Dong the column made a halt due to a traffic jam. As the column came to a halt, the enemy, who had taken up positions behind the railroad embankment which ran parallel to the Maine Supply route at a distance of approximately 100 yards, took the Battalion under fire with automatic weapons, machine guns, and small arms fire. Calls for medics went out along the column as soldiers became wounded. Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Heersma, with complete disregard for his own personal safety, walked down the column, which was under fire at all times, rendering aid to the wounded. Three times Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Heersma left a place of safety to render aid, walking distances of 100 to 300 yards, on foot and under fire, to assist wounded soldiers. Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Heersma's actions, gallantry, and heroism on this occasion reflect great credit upon himself and the military service.
HEFLEY, ERNEST B.
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The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Hospital Corpsman Second Class Ernest B. Hefley, United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with a Marine Infantry Company of the FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 30 November 1950. Hospital Corpsman Second Class Hefley serving as a Corpsman was assigned duty with a rifle platoon. During a fanatical attack by enemy forces he fearlessly and without regard for his own personal safety repeatedly exposed himself to enemy rifle, machine gun and mortar fire to administer to wounded Marines. On one occasion he courageously ran seventy-five yards along a ridge line in plain view of the enemy to give first aid to a wounded Marine. After treating the casualty and supervising his evacuation, he, himself sustained hand wounds from an enemy grenade. Although painfully wounded and suffering from loss of blood, he refused medical treatment and directed first aid treatment and evacuation of two other casualties before he submitted to treatment and evacuation. Hospital Corpsman Second Class Hefley's heroic actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
HERDER, HARRY J.
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The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Hospital Corpsman Third Class Harry J. Herder, Jr. (NSN: 9888491), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving as a Corpsman with a Marine Infantry Company of the FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 13 January 1952. Hospital Corpsman Third Class Herder displayed outstanding courage and selfless devotion to duty while on a volunteer mission deep in enemy territory. When an exploding land mine seriously wounded him and several other members of the patrol he unhesitatingly went to the aid of the other casualties. Though he was the most seriously wounded, he continued to give medical treatment and direct other members of the patrol in the administration of first aid to the less seriously injured. Despite intense pain he refused medical aid for himself until all other casualties had been treated. Hospital Corpsman Third Class Herder's heroic actions were an inspiration to all who observed him and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
HICKEY, CHESTER O.
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The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant Commander Chester O. Hickey (NSN: 0-168228), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and resourcefulness as Squadron Materiel Officer of Destroyer Squadron NINE embarked in the U.S.S. MANSFIELD (DD-728), on 30 September 1950, when the MANSFIELD struck an enemy mine in North Korean waters. Lieutenant Commander Hickey displayed exceptional audacity and proficiency in evacuating the wounded and in repairing of damage in the ship. By his striking courage in entering compartments filled with fumes, smoke and debris, and by his calm direction of the daring rescue of the wounded from the Chief Petty Officer's quarters, Lieutenant Commander Hickey demonstrated outstanding leadership in this grave emergency. His extraordinary initiative was revealed by his aid to the Damage Control Officer in ascertaining the extent of the damage. Lieutenant Commander Hickey well knew the dangers of entering these compartments, but promptly evidenced his unswerving devotion to his shipmates and ship by being the first officer to enter the explosion area. His valorous actions directly contributed to the prompt medical attention received by the wounded and to the effective control of the damage sustained. His actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
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The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star (Army Award) to Rear Admiral John Martin Higgins (NSN: 0-57597), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action as Commander, Cruiser Division FIVE, Joint Task Force SEVEN, United Nations Command, in action in the Inchon-Seoul operation during the period 15 September to 21 September 1950. His actions contributed materially to the success of this operation and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service.
HILL, LEWIS R.
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The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Chief Gunner's Mate Lewis R. Hill (NSN: 3284618), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action as a member of a repair party on board the U.S.S. COLLETT (DD-73) during the amphibious assault on Inchon, Korea, from 13 to 15 September 1950. Chief Gunner's Mate Hill's utter disregard for his personal safety in picking up an unexploded fused projectile from the wardroom and throwing it over the side, saved his companions from possible serious injury and prevented further damage to that area of the ship. His outstanding courage and steadfast devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
HILLERUD, ROGER E.
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The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Hospitalman Roger E. Hillerud (NSN: 9845030), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with a Marine Infantry Company of the FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 11 September 1951. Serving as a Company Corpsman, Hospitalman Hillerud exhibited outstanding courage and initiative during the company's attack of a fanatically defended and heavily fortified enemy hill position. When the assaulting elements were pinned down by devastating enemy fire near the summit of the hill, and sustained heavy casualties, he unhesitatingly moved forward through the heavy enemy fire to reach and render aid to the wounded. Although he was himself painfully wounded by shrapnel, he steadfastly refused to seek cover, continuing to aid his comrades until all had been treated and evacuated, and only then sought aid for his own wound. His unflinching devotion to duty and great personal bravery were an inspiration to all members of the command, and undoubtedly contributed to the saving of human life. Hospitalman Hillerud's heroic actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
HINNANT, WORTH M.
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The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Hospital Corpsman First Class Worth M. Hinnant (NSN: 2638567), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving as a Corpsman with a Marine Infantry Battalion of the FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 2 June 1951. Hospital Corpsman First Class Hinnant was attached to the Battalion Command Group on a reconnaissance near Yang-gu when it was subjected to a murderous enemy mortar barrage. Although painfully wounded by shrapnel, he immediately began to administer first aid to the other casualties and assisted them to covered positions with complete disregard for the shells bursting all around him. Even when he was wounded a second time, he continued to treat the wounded in such an efficient manner that the battalion surgeon credited him with saving the lives of six of the more seriously wounded. Hospital Corpsman First Class Hinnant's courageous actions and outstanding professional skill were an inspiration to all who observed him, and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
HODGES, GERALD L.
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The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Hospitalman Gerald L. Hodges (NSN: 2608567), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with a Marine Infantry Company of the FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 3 July 1952. Serving as a Corpsman, Hospitalman Hodges displayed exceptional heroism when the unit was assaulting heavily fortified enemy positions. Wounded in the early stage of the attack he refused evacuation and continued to treat the other casualties. Many times during the engagement, he climbed up the hill to the leading platoon in full view of the enemy to continue treating the wounded and aid in their evacuation. On return trips he carried much needed ammunition to machine gun positions. Wounded again he once more refused evacuation and continued to treat the other casualties. Only when the platoon had withdrawn to a forward aid station did he submit to treatment. Hospitalman Hodges' extreme courage under fire and initiative were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
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HODGES, WALTER L.
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The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Hospital Corpsman Third Class Walter L. Hodges (NSN: 2694384), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving as a Corpsman with a Marine Tank Company of the FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 28 May 1952. Hospital Corpsman Third Class Hodges displayed outstanding courage, professional skill and coolness under fire. The tank platoon in which he was serving was engaged in support of an infantry company attack on a strongly defended enemy hill support position. As an intense barrage of enemy shells began to fall in the area, he observed on platoon suffering heavy casualties, including the platoon Corpsman. Requesting and receiving permission to leave the tank positions so that he could aid the wounded, he dashed across more than one hundred yards of ground under heavy fire and immediately began to administer aid and direct evacuation of the wounded. He exposed himself to fire for several hours taking care of the casualties and remained with the platoon until it was withdrawn to the main line of resistance. By his devotion to duty he saved the lives of many Marines and was an inspiration to all who observed him. Hospital Corpsman Third Class Hodges' courageous actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
*HOESCHEN, KENNETH G. (KIA)
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The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Hospitalman Kenneth Gervase Hoeschen (NSN: 3664008), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving as a Corpsman attached to Company C, First Battalion, First Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 8 August 1952. Serving as a Platoon Corpsman, Hospitalman Hoeschen displayed outstanding courage, initiative and devotion to duty. Under cover of darkness, he accompanied a squad of Marines who were directed to occupy a combat outpost forward of the main line of resistance. Immediately after assuming the defensive positions on the outpost, an intense concentration of enemy mortar and artillery fire commenced. During the barrage, the bunker occupied by him and five Marines, received a direct hit in the front doorway. The explosion caused instant death to two men and wounded three others. Although seriously wounded, he refused aid and instructed other Marines in the first aid treatment and care of the other casualties and continually inquired as to the condition of the wounded men. As a result of the wounds he received, Hospitalman Hoeschen died, gallantly giving his life for his country in the performance of his duty. His indomitable spirit and selfless devotion to his fellow men were an inspiration to all who observed him and his gallant and courageous actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Albany, Minnesota
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HOHMANN, KEITH E.
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The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Hospitalman Keith Edward Hohmann (NSN: 2885448), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with a Marine Infantry Company of the FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 25 July 1953. Serving as a Corpsman, Hospitalman Hohmann displayed outstanding courage, initiative and devotion to duty. When the company's sector of the main line of resistance was subjected to devastating enemy mortar and artillery fire, he courageously and with complete disregard for his personal safety moved into the battered trenchline in order to render first aid treatment to the many casualties and direct their evacuation. Upon being severely injured when an enemy shell exploded close to him, he refused to submit to treatment of his wounds and continued to give treatment and aid in the evacuation of his wounded comrades. Throughout the night he repeatedly exposed himself to the murderous hostile fire as he gave first aid to the many wounded. Only after the action had ceased and he had insured himself that all casualties had been treated, did he finally rest. Hospitalman Hohmann's gallant and courageous actions combined with his indomitable spirit served as an inspiration to all who observed him and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Albany, Minnesota
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HOLLOWAY, RAYMOND R.
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The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Hospital Corpsman Third Class Raymond R. Holloway (NSN: 7844971), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with a Marine Infantry Company of the FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 1 March 1951. Serving as a Medical Corpsman, Hospital Corpsman Third Class Holloway displayed outstanding courage and professional ability when the company, moving in the assault of a strongly defended enemy hill position, was subjected to murderous enemy automatic weapons and small arms fire. He fearlessly and with complete disregard for his personal safety moved forward through the heavy enemy fire, rendering aid to the casualties and dragging them to covered positions. Although he was himself painfully wounded in the leg, he refused to be evacuated, continuing steadfastly to treat the wounded until other Corpsmen arrived to relieve him. Hospital Corpsman Third Class Holloway's courageous devotion to duty and heroic actions were an inspiration to all who observed him, and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
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HOLTZ, JACK
Citation:
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Hospital Corpsman Third Class Jack Holtz (NSN: 7532746), United States Naval Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with a Marine Infantry Company of the FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 9 September 1951. Serving as Company Corpsman, Hospital Corpsman Third Class Holtz displayed exceptional courage and devotion to duty when the company was subjected to a devastatingly accurate enemy mortar and artillery barrage, causing numerous casualties. Exposing himself fearlessly and with complete disregard for his own safety to the intense enemy fire, he skillfully treated six of his comrades, and then attempted to carry one seriously wounded man to safety. When the intensity of the enemy fire increased, he courageously threw himself over his helpless comrade to shield him, and was himself painfully wounded. His great personal bravery and unhesitating care of his comrades were an inspiration to all members of the command. Hospital Corpsman Third Class Holtz's heroic actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
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HOPE, RICHARD L.
Citation:
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Hospital Corpsman Second Class Richard L. Hope, United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with a Marine Infantry Battalion of the FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 2 October 1950. As the platoon to which Hospital Corpsman Second Class Hope was attached as a Medical Corpsman fought its way to the top of a barren peak enemy fire increased and the enemy counterattacked following a barrage of hand grenades. Seeing the platoon leader and runner struck down by the enemy attack, he rushed forward to a position where he covered them with fire. Then without regard for his own personal safety and despite intense enemy grenade and small arms fire he disregarded warnings of the danger and fought his way to the aid of the wounded. While in an exposed position he was struck by enemy fire and seriously wounded. Hospital Corpsman Second Class Hope's display of initiative and heroic actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
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The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star (Army Award) to Rear Admiral John Madison Hoskins (NSN: 0-57067), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Commander, Carrier Division THREE, Joint Task Force SEVEN, United Nations Command, in action in the Inchon-Seoul operation during the period 15 September to 21 September 1950. Admiral Hoskins displayed fearless and aggressive leadership while directing his Division, which provided air coverage for the invasion fleet and assault craft and close air support for the landing troops until complete attainment of ground objectives was accomplished. His actions contributed materially to the success of this operation and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service.
Born: Pineville, Kentucky
Home Town: Pineville, Kentucky
HOWARD, T R.
Citation:
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant, Junior Grade T. R. Howard, United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. REDHEAD (AMS-34), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea, from 10 to 31 October 1950. A highly skilled and resolute officer, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Howard boldly directed his ship in the hazardous task of sweeping enemy mines from channels and anchorage areas off Wonsan in the face of heavy fire from hostile coast defense batteries. By his inspiring leadership throughout this intensive action, he contributed materially to the ultimate success of the operation. His marked courage, expert seamanship and steadfast devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Howard and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: San Antonio, Texas
HUNTER, WALTER 1st Award
Citation:
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Hospital Corpsman Third Class Walter Hunter, Jr. (NSN: 2764425), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with a Marine Reconnaissance Company of the FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 28 September 1950. At about 1800, Company D, Seventh Marines, and his company came under heavy small arms fire and accurate enemy mortar and artillery concentrations, killing five men and wounding 18 including the Corpsman from Company D. Hospital Corpsman Third Class Hunter, voluntarily and with absolute disregard for his own safety, in the face of heavy enemy fire, assumed the responsibility for and directed the evacuation of the dead and wounded of both companies. He established an aid station in a shack near his company and spent several hours under heavy enemy sniper fire, and by his efficient and expert administration of blood plasma and medical aid to the wounded he saved numerous lives. The following morning still under extremely heavy fire and in the face of a determined enemy counterattack he remained at his post and treated 27 additional wounded from Company D and Company E, Seventh Marines. Hospital Corpsman Third Class Hunter's display of initiative and heroic actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
HUNTER, WALTER 2nd Award
Citation:
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star to Hospital Corpsman Third Class Walter Hunter, Jr. (NSN: 2764425), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with a Marine Reconnaissance Company of the FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 5 November 1950. At about 0800, while accompanying a reconnaissance patrol forward of friendly front lines, Hospital Corpsman Third Class Hunter, serving as Company Corpsman, and the patrol were pinned down by intense and accurate enemy small arms and mortar fire. Several members of the patrol were wounded and he observed one of the wounded lying in an exposed area. Without regard for his own personal safety, he ran through the enemy fire and drug the wounded Marine to a covered position, administered aid, and then attempted to rejoin his patrol and render aid to the remaining wounded. While crossing the enemy fire-swept area, he was severely wounded and lay in an exposed area, partially paralyzed until friendly forces were able to reach and evacuate him. Hospital Corpsman Third Class Hunter's heroic actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
HURT, RAYMOND E.
Citation:
The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star (Army Award) to Hospitalman Raymond E. Hurt, Jr. (NSN: 5694869), United States Navy, for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving as a Medical Corpsman on 31 May 1951. On that date, Company H was attacking a well defended enemy position on Hill 483. During the fierce engagement, Hospitalman Hurt, as Company Aidman, repeatedly exposed himself to enemy fire to go to the aid of wounded personnel. He made repeated trips across open, fire-swept terrain, to carry four wounded Marines over one hundred yards to safety. The actions of Hospitalman Hurt resulted in the saving of many lives, and contributed to the success of the company's mission. The gallantry, initiative, and outstanding devotion to duty displayed by Hospitalman Hurt on this occasion reflect great credit upon himself and the military service.
HUTTO, JAMES E.
Citation:
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Hospitalman James E. Hutto (NSN: 2790462), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving as a Corpsman attached to a Marine Infantry Company of the FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 7 February 1952. When the company was subjected to a fierce enemy mortar and artillery barrage which resulted in many friendly casualties, Hospitalman Hutto displayed exceptional courage and professional competence in the face of grave peril. With complete disregard for his personal safety he hurried to the scene and immediately began treating the wounded, working calmly and skillfully in the midst of intense enemy fire. Although he suffered painful shrapnel wounds he fearlessly continued working, refusing medical aid for himself until all other wounded had been treated and evacuated. His initiative and selfless devotion to duty were responsible for the successful evacuation of seventeen casualties and served as an inspiration to all who observed him. Hospitalman Hutto's courageous actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
HUTTO, JAMES E.
Citation:
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Hospitalman James E. Hutto (NSN: 2790462), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving as a Corpsman attached to a Marine Infantry Company of the FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 7 February 1952. When the company was subjected to a fierce enemy mortar and artillery barrage which resulted in many friendly casualties, Hospitalman Hutto displayed exceptional courage and professional competence in the face of grave peril. With complete disregard for his personal safety he hurried to the scene and immediately began treating the wounded, working calmly and skillfully in the midst of intense enemy fire. Although he suffered painful shrapnel wounds he fearlessly continued working, refusing medical aid for himself until all other wounded had been treated and evacuated. His initiative and selfless devotion to duty were responsible for the successful evacuation of seventeen casualties and served as an inspiration to all who observed him. Hospitalman Hutto's courageous actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
HYATT, BRUCE M.
Citation:
The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Bruce M. Hyatt, Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Navy (Reserve), for gallantry and intrepidity in action as Commander Mine Division THIRTY-TWO and in tactical command of that division during minesweeping operations conducted in Wonsan Harbor preliminary to occupation of Wonsan, Korea by United Nations forces. During the period 10 to 12 October 1950. The ships of his division penetrated to a depth of 19 miles from the outer mine defenses through heavily mined waters until well within range of enemy shore batteries. On 12 October he penetrated two lines of mines barring the entrance to the outer harbor and carried out the sweeping plans in the face of enemy gunfire until his flagship was mine. His leadership and professional competence contributed greatly to the efficient operation of the ships of his division and his loyalty and steadfast devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the U. S. Naval Service.
JEFFORDS, WILLIAM D.
Citation:
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Hospital Corpsman Third Class William D. Jeffords (NSN: 9860411), United States Naval Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as a Corpsman attached to a Marine Infantry Company of the FIRST Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea, on 23 April 1951. When the company was subjected to a night-long attack by a numerically superior hostile force, Hospital Corpsman Third Class Jeffords continually moved about the area, rendered aid to the casualties and removed them to covered positions despite the devastating enemy mortar, automatic-weapons and small arms fire. Frequently going forward of the battle line, although surrounded by hostile troops, he courageously hauled wounded comrades to safety and skillfully treated their wounds. By his outstanding courage, daring initiative and self-sacrificing efforts in behalf of others, Hospital Corpsman Third Class Jeffords served to inspire all who observed him and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
KATZ, LAWRENCE S.
Citation:
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Hospitalman Lawrence S. Katz (NSN: 2784189), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with a Marine Infantry Company of the FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 4 May 1952. Hospitalman Katz, serving as Company Corpsman on a patrol deep in enemy territory, displayed outstanding courage and professional skill in the performance of his duties. Continually exposing himself to intense enemy automatic weapons, artillery, mortar and grenade fire, he calmly treated and evacuated wounded. Several times he shielded the wounded with his own body, sustaining wounds himself to save his comrades from further injury. He continued to treat the wounded until all had received medical attention, then assisted in their evacuation. His fearless initiative and selfless devotion to duty were an inspiration to all who served with him. Hospitalman Katz's heroic actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
KHAN, ALI M.
Citation:
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Fireman Ali M. Khan (NSN: 7990389), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action when the U.S.S. BRUSH (DD-745) struck an enemy mine in North Korean waters on 26 September 1950. Fireman Khan distinguished himself by assisting in the removal of his shipmates from the severely damaged and flooded forward fire room, entering the space innumerable times, in complete disregard of his own safety. The forward fire room was in a wrecked state, filled with debris, smoke, fumes, fire, and in a flooded condition open to the sea. His repeated efforts resulted in saving seven men who had been on watch in the space. His fearless actions and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Citation:
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private First Class Yale S. Kiefer, United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with a Marine infantry battalion in Korea from 18 to 23 January 1951. Private First Class Kiefer continually displayed a high degree of initiative, efficiency, and aggressiveness while serving as a platoon runner in an infantry company. On 23 January 1951, while his company was on patrol near Chiso-dong, Korea, they encountered a strong well-entrenched enemy force and began receiving direct enemy machine gun and small arms fire. With complete disregard for his own personal safety, he charged forward through a hail of enemy fire to an exposed position approximately twenty-five yards in front of his platoon. Upon arriving at this position, he observed the strength and disposition of the enemy force and directed fire against an enemy machine gun which was delaying the advance of his company. He remained in this position directing fire against the enemy until he was mortally wounded and gallantly gave his life for his country. His timely and competent actions, courage under fire, and out standing devotion to duty inspired the members of his unit to greater efforts, set an example for all who observed him, and contributed materially to the destruction of the enemy force and the subsequent advance and completion of his company's assigned mission. Private First Class Kiefer's heroic actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
KISSINGER, GEORGE K.
Citation:
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Hospitalman George K. Kissinger (NSN: 4288390), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with a Marine Infantry Company of the FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 5 February 1953. Serving as a Platoon Corpsman, Hospitalman Kissinger displayed outstanding courage, initiative and devotion to duty. When the unit of which he was a member was engaged in fortifying a position on the mail line of resistance, they were subjected to devastating artillery fire. During the barrage, one of the Marines was mortally wounded and two others severely injured. Expressing complete disregard for his personal safety, he fearlessly rushed over two hundred yards of open terrain and reached one of the stricken men. Although painfully wounded, he courageously administered aid to his injured comrade and then assisted in the evacuation. Refusing medical treatment, he returned to the exposed area to assure that there were no more casualties in need of aid. Only with the knowledge that his assistance was no longer urgently needed did he submit to treatment of his wounds. Hospitalman Kissinger's gallant and courageous actions together with his indomitable spirit served as an inspiration to all who observed him and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
KOERNER, CLARENCE A.
Citation:
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Chief Boatswain's Mate Clarence A. Koerner (NSN: 3288492), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while attached to U.S.S. Cavalier (APA-37), during operations against the enemy during the amphibious assault landing at Inchon, in Korea, on 15 September 1950. As Wave Commander he led the tenth assault wave to the beach through severe sniper and mortar fire with the greatest skill, courage, and determination. When the coxswain and engineer of his boat were wounded he assumed the duties of coxswain while at the same time directing the unloading of vehicles and thereafter remained at the beach exposed to enemy fire in order to evacuate wounded. His outstanding bravery, initiative and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
KRAUSE, RALPH A.
Citation:
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Ensign Ralph A. Krause (NSN: 0-444090), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action in the rescue of personnel and damage control work onboard the U.S.S. BRUSH (DD-745), on 26 September 1950, when the BRUSH struck an enemy mine in the North Korean waters. Ensign Krause displayed exceptional courage in entering smoke and fume-filled compartments to determine the extent of damage, and by aiding to his utmost the evacuation of personnel casualties. He used great tenacity in remaining at the scene of the fire until it was extinguished, combating the most adverse conditions; and in the control of flooding, which, if unchecked, might have been progressive, resulting in the possible loss of the ship. He remained in the damaged area, tirelessly assisting in the control of flooding for a period of two days. Ensign Krause's valorous actions directly contributed to the prompt medical attention received by the wounded, and to the effective control of the damage sustained, and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
*LAMONICA, ANTHONY D. (KIA)
Citation:
The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Hospitalman Anthony Daniel LaMonica (NSN: 3029383), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving as a Medical Corpsman attached to Company F, Second Battalion, First Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in action against enemy aggressor forces near Kudong, Korea, on the night of 15 - 16 September 1951. During his platoon's attack on a heavily fortified enemy hill position, Hospitalman LaMonica repeatedly braved intense hostile fire to administer expert treatment to the wounded, frequently going forward of the line to reach the casualties. When his unit withdrew to defensive positions for the night after a vigorous two-hour battle, he worked in the middle of the intense crossfire of enemy weapons, remaining until the last to ensure that all casualties had been safely evacuated, and, while the new defenses were being consolidated, assisted in protecting these positions. With his platoon suffering approximately ninety percent casualties during a series of concerted night attacks by a numerically superior hostile force, he moved calmly about the area under heavy fire and skillfully administered medical aid until mortally wounded shortly before dawn. His initiative, courage, and steadfast devotion to duty in the face of grave personal risk inspired all who served with him, reflecting the highest credit upon Hospitalman LaMonica and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Home Town: Chicago, Illinois
*LANE, MONTY J. (KIA)
Citation:
The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Hospitalman Monty Jack Lane (NSN: 3515112), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as a Corpsman with Company B, 1st Battalion, 7th Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, during action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 15 March 1951. Although still suffering from a recent illness, Hospitalman Lane voluntarily returned to duty in advance of his normal release date to accompany his unit in the attack on a strongly defended ridge in the vicinity of Hoengsong. Concerned only for the safety of others throughout the assault, he repeatedly exposed himself to the accurate hostile fire to render first aid to the wounded and, on three separate occasions, advanced under intense machine gun, small arms and mortar fire to treat fallen Marines and evacuate them to safety. Observing a casualty lying in an exposed fire-swept area during the final stages of the assault, he again braved the enemy barrage and, just as he reached the wounded man, was fatally struck down by a burst of enemy fire. His heroic actions, indomitable courage and steadfast devotion to duty at great risk to his own life served as an inspiration to all who observed him and reflect the highest credit upon Hospitalman Lane and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Home Town: Oilton, Oklahoma
LAU, RICHARD A.
Citation:
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Hospitalman Richard Andrew Lau (NSN: 9545726), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving as a Corpsman attached to an Infantry Company, FIRST Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 15 September 1950. Stationed at the forward aid post during his battalions attack against enemy positions at Inchon, Hospitalman Lau repeatedly exposed himself to hostile fire to administer aid and expedite the evacuation of the wounded. Although he himself was painfully and seriously wounded in the leg during one of his trips to assist casualties, he continued to render medical treatment to the wounded and refused to be evacuated until he became so weak from loss of blood that he had to be carried to the aid station. His outstanding courage and initiative served to inspire all members of his unit and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
LEEK, BILLY J.
Citation:
The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star (Army Award) to Hospitalman Billy J. Leek (NSN: 2562611), United States Navy, for gallantry in action against the armed enemy while serving as a Corpsman attached to the Second Battalion, Fifth Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces near the Naktong River Sector, Korea, on 17 August 1950. Hospitalman Leek, a Company Aid Man, while under intense small arms, machine gun and mortar fire, without regard for his own safety, fearlessly endangered his own life while making repeated trips through this fire to attend wounded Marines of his company. While performing these acts he was wounded three times but refused evacuation of himself until all the wounded had been cared for. His unselfish devotion to duty and personal heroism were responsible for the saving of the lives of several Marines and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
LEGARIE, WARREN G.
Citation:
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Hospital Corpsman First Class Warren George LeGarie (NSN: 2045377), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving as a Corpsman with a Marine Artillery Battalion of the FIRST Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea, on 7 December 1950. When his battery was subjected to heavy enemy mortar, grenade and automatic-weapons fire, Corpsman LeGarie repeatedly exposed himself to the hostile fire to render first aid to wounded Marines who were still in unprotected positions. Although seriously wounded himself, he refused medical aid and continued to treat and evacuate other casualties. By his courageous actions in saving others at the risk of his own life, Corpsman LeGarie served to inspire all who observed him. His fortitude, daring initiative and selfless devotion to duty throughout were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
LEMONS, GEORGE C.
Citation:
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Hospitalman Third Class George C. Lemons (NSN: 2291960), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving as a Medical Corpsman with a Marine Infantry Company of the FIRST Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in Korea, on 31 August 1951. When the platoon was suddenly brought under a devastating burst of fire from a well-concealed enemy bunker during an attack against strongly defended hostile positions, Hospitalman Third Class Lemons observed four wounded comrades lying in front of friendly lines and immediately crawled forward under enemy observation to administer first aid to the most seriously wounded man. With another burst of enemy fire shattering the immediate area and mortally wounding the stricken Marine while he was being treated, Hospitalman Third Class Lemons courageously refused to seek cover and fearlessly moved throughout the danger area, rendering medical treatment to the three other casualties and assisting them to safety. By his daring initiative, outstanding bravery and selfless efforts in behalf of others, Hospitalman Third Class Lemons served to inspire all who observed him and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
LEVIN, PHILIP
Citation:
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant, Junior Grade Philip Levin (NSN: 0-482912), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy during minesweeping operations at Wonsan in the Korean theater during the period 10 to 31 October 1950. As Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. SOPREY (AMS-28) and while sweeping enemy minefields in the face of heavy fire from enemy coast defense batteries, by his inspiring leadership and professional competence, he contributed directly to the efficient operation of his ship and the successful clearance of mine free channels and anchorage areas off Wonsan.
LEWIS, GEORGE H.
Citation:
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant, Junior Grade George H. Lewis (NSN: 456181), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry in action and outstanding devotion to duty as a member of the rescue party which entered the demolished living compartments on the U.S.S. WALKE (DD-723) when that ship was heavily damaged due to enemy action on the morning of 12 June 1951. Knowing that a large number of wounded men were trapped in the debris and wreckage in the damaged area he voluntarily entered on of the compartments to find and rescue them. With complete disregard for his own safety, he made his way through the wreckage, and in almost complete darkness, sought out the wounded men trapped there. He helped to extricate them from the wreckage and bring them to safety. He remained in that compartment until all of the wounded had been rescued and all of the dead who could be extricated had been recovered. His personal courage, determination and devotion to duty saved the lives of several men who would otherwise have perished, and was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
LILES, JACKY W. 1st Award
Citation:
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Hospital Corpsman Third Class Jacky W. Liles (NSN: 2970460), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with a Marine Infantry Company of the FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 12 July 1953. Serving as a Corpsman, Hospital Corpsman Third Class Liles displayed outstanding courage, initiative and devotion to duty. He was serving with a friendly combat patrol that had penetrated deep into enemy territory when it was suddenly subjected to devastating hostile small arms and grenade fire. Although painfully wounded, he expressed complete disregard for his personal safety, by gallantly refusing evacuation and continuing to render medical aid to his wounded comrades. Only after assuring himself that all of the wounded had been cared for and evacuated, did he treat his own serious wounds and allow himself to be evacuated. Through his outstanding courage and indomitable spirit he was directly responsible for the saving of two Marines' lives. Hospital Corpsman Third Class Liles' gallant and courageous actions throughout served as an inspiration to all who observed him and was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
LILES, JACKY W. 2nd Award
Citation:
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star to Hospital Corpsman Third Class Jacky W. Liles (NSN: 2970460), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving as a Medical Corpsman with a Marine Infantry Company of the FIRST Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in Korea, on 25 July 1953. With his company subjected to devastating enemy mortar and artillery barrages while occupying a friendly outpost position far forward of the main line of resistance, Hospital Corpsman Third Class Liles unhesitatingly crossed an open area in the face of the murderous hostile fire to assist a seriously wounded Marine. After administering medical treatment to the casualty, he remained in the position for over an hour until the intensity of the hostile barrage decreased and then safely evacuated the wounded man. By his inspiring initiative, marked courage and selfless devotion to duty, Hospital Corpsman Third Class Liles was directly responsible for saving the life of another and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
LINK, HARRY L.
Citation:
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Engineman Third Class Harry L. Link (NSN: 3730516), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action as a Fireman in the Forward Engine Room on board the U.S.S. PLEDGE (DD-745), during minesweeping operations in densely mined areas subjected to enemy gunfire off Wonsan, Korea, on 12 October 1950. Although painfully injured and dazed, he heroically assisted a semi-conscious shipmate who was unable to help himself to escape from the rapidly flooding engine room, and when clear of the ship, cared for him until picked up by a passing boat. His outstanding courage and steadfast devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
LONG, KENNETH J.
Citation:
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Hospitalman Kenneth J. Long (NSN: 4255632), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with a Marine Infantry Company of the FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 7 August 1952. Serving as a Corpsman, Hospitalman Long displayed outstanding courage, initiative and devotion to duty. While participating in an assault on two enemy held hills, he unhesitatingly advanced through the intense enemy artillery and mortar fire. He moved dauntlessly over the skyline of a ridge and down the forward slope of the hill, in the face of automatic fire, in an effort to administer aid to a seriously wounded Marine. Upon completion of the medical treatment, he again braved the deadly enemy fire and carried the wounded man approximately 75 yards back over the ridge. Realizing the need for further protection, he assembled four other men, needing treatment, and set up a perimeter of defense around the wounded Marine. Moving from man to man, he attended their needs and then continued on to other casualties. Throughout the engagement, he administered aid to nineteen wounded Marines and issued words of encouragement to his fighting comrades. Hospitalman Long's gallant and courageous actions served as an inspiration to all who observed him and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
LUNDGREN, OSCAR B.
Citation:
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Commander Oscar B. Lundgren (NSN: 0-73023), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving as Commanding Officer of U.S.S. DeHAVEN (DD-727) in Korea, from 13 to 15 September 1950. Commander Lundgren navigated his ship through an enemy mine field, engaged enemy shore batteries at close range, and contributed greatly to the successful amphibious landings at Inchon.
MAHONEY, JAMES R.
Citation:
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Hospitalman James R. Mahoney, Jr. (NSN: 5583836), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with a Marine Infantry Company of the FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 12 February 1952. Serving as a Corpsman, Hospitalman Mahoney displayed exceptional valor and devotion to duty in the face of grave danger. Although painfully wounded in action and evacuated two days earlier, he returned to his unit shortly before it was taken under intense enemy artillery and mortar fire. In the midst of the barrage he rushed to the aid of several wounded Marines. With complete disregard for his personal safety, he began treating the casualties and, although severely wounded again, refused medical aid for himself until all other casualties had been cared for. His fearless initiative and dauntless spirit were an inspiration to all who observed him. Hospitalman Mahoney's courageous actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
MARTINEZ, WILLIAM E.
Citation:
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Hospital Corpsman Second Class William E. Martinez (NSN: 3726155), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving as a Corpsman attached to a Marine Infantry Company of the FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 5 April 1951. Hospital Corpsman Second Class Martinez, attached to a rifle platoon, displayed outstanding courage, aggressiveness and ability in the performance of his duties. During an assault against a well-entrenched enemy, he noted that several Marines in the assault platoon were wounded. Unhesitatingly and with complete disregard for his own personal safety, he moved forward in the face of intense enemy fire and administered first aid to the wounded. Although continually subjected to enemy fire, he painstakingly stopped the hemorrhage of one man whose jugular vein had been severed by shrapnel and subsequently treated a total of six men. With admirable professional skill, he remained with the wounded until all could be evacuated. His outstanding ability and courage were directly instrumental in saving the life of one Marine and minimizing the wounds of five others, thereby serving as an inspiration for all who observed him. Hospital Corpsman Second Class Martinez's heroic actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
MCELROY, JAMES A.
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The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Hospitalman James A. McElroy (NSN: 2535260), United States Naval Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with a Marine Infantry Company of the FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 11 September 1952. Serving as a Corpsman, Hospitalman McElroy displayed outstanding courage, initiative and devotion to duty during a patrol action deep in enemy territory. The patrol was cut off by a numerically superior enemy force. Although he had been painfully wounded early in the action, he expressed complete disregard for his personal comfort and safety and repeatedly exposed himself to the intense enemy fire in order to administer aid to his wounded comrades. When he saw a wounded machine gunner in an exposed area, he unhesitatingly ran to his aid. While amidst the hostile fire and caring for the wounded Marine, he was gain wounded but realizing the extreme danger of his position he picked the man up and carried him through the blanketing enemy fire to the comparative safety of a shell hole. He continued to tend the wounds of the patrol until the unit reached the safety of friendly lines whereupon Hospitalman McElroy collapsed as a result of his own wounds. His gallant and courageous actions served as an inspiration to all who observed him and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
MCELROY, JAMES A.
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The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant, Junior Grade Aubrey L. McIlvaine (NSN: 0-433069), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action as Safety Officer on a 3-inch gun on board the U.S.S. PLEDGE (AM-277) during minesweeping operations in densely mined areas subjected to enemy gunfire off Wonsan, Korea, on 12 October 1950. Through his leadership and judgment his gun crew took under fire and silenced two enemy shore batteries firing on a stricken sister ship, and after his own ship was mined, he unselfishly organized and directed the orderly evacuation of his crew, though painfully injured, thereby contributing to the successful clearing of mine free channels and anchorage areas off Wonsan. His outstanding courage and steadfast devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
MCKEAN, JAMES L.
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The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Hospitalman James L. McKean (NSN: 4132870), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with a Marine Infantry Company of the FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 23 March 1953. Serving as a Corpsman, Hospitalman McKean displayed outstanding courage, initiative and devotion to duty. While subjected to a devastating enemy barrage of mortar and artillery fire, he and three of his comrades were critically wounded by hostile fire falling in the trenchline. Despite extremely painful wounds, he gallantly crept through the intense barrage to aid the three injured Marines. Expressing complete disregard for his serious condition, he steadfastly refused medical attention for his wounds until he had administered aid to the other stricken men. He courageously insisted that the others be evacuated to safety before he allowed himself to be treated and then only upon the direct order of the Battalion Surgeon was he evacuated. Hospitalman McKean's gallant and courageous actions combined with his selfless devotion to duty served as an inspiration to all who observed him and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
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The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant Commander William Russell McKinney (NSN: 0-85170), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity during minesweeping operations at Wonson, Korea, from 10 to 31 October 1950. While serving as Commanding Officer of Underwater Demolition Team THREE which participated in sweeping enemy mine fields in the face of heavy fire from enemy coast defense batteries by his inspiring leadership and professional competence he contributed directly to the successful clearance of mine free channel and anchorage areas off Wonsan.
Born: Springfield, Ohio
Home Town: San Francisco, California
MCLEAN, WILLIAM H.
Citation:
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Hospital Corpsman Third Class William H. McLean (NSN: 5703836), United States Naval Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with a Marine Infantry Battalion of the FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea from 27 November to 2 December 1950. As Corpsman with a reinforced Rifle Company which was assigned the mission of protecting a mountain pass on the Division main supply route between Hagaru-ri and Yudam-ni, Hospital Corpsman Third Class McLean displayed outstanding skill and courage in going to and caring for the wounded during a five day period when the company was isolated and cut off from friendly units. The Company suffered approximately 84 casualties and was constantly under fire. On the morning of 29 November, when one sector of the perimeter was being assaulted by a strong enemy force, Hospital Corpsman Third Class McLean voluntarily and with absolute disregard for his own personal safety left his covered position and moved through intense rifle and automatic weapons fire in order to administer aid to a wounded man who was forward of the front lines. When it was found that the wounded man could not be moved because of the intense enemy fire, Hospital Corpsman Third Class McLean elected to remain with him and continued to administer aid until the enemy attack had been repulsed. Throughout the five day period in sub-zero weather he saved many lives by his daring and fearless actions which served as an inspiration to all members of the command. Hospital Corpsman Third Class McLean's heroic actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
MCMULLEN, BIRTON E.
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The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant Birton Eugene McMullen (NSN: 0-320519), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action as Pilot of a Helicopter in Helicopter Squadron ONE, based on board the U.S.S. LST 799, during a rescue mission near Wonson, Korea, on 13 June 1952. Skillfully piloting his helicopter at low altitude over the mountainous terrain to the scene of a pilot downed in enemy territory, Lieutenant McMullen expertly maneuvered his vulnerable plane in the face of intense hostile rifle and machine-gun fire and succeeded in reaching a position where his crewman could lower the rescue sling and recover the downed airman. While returning to his base, he sighted another pilot in the water approximately 400 yards from shoreline and quickly carried out a second rescue, returning both airmen to safety. His superb airmanship, outstanding courage and unswerving devotion to duty reflect great credit upon Lieutenant McMullen and the United States Naval Service.
MCMULLEN, CORNELIUS E.
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The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant Commander Cornelius E. McMullen (NSN: 0-88622), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. PIRATE (AM-275) during minesweeping operations conducted in heavily mined waters and in areas subjected to enemy gunfire during the period 10 to 12 October 1950. The inspiring leadership and professional competence constantly displayed by Lieutenant McMullen in the performance of this mission contributed directly to the efficient operation of his ship and to the successful clearance of mine free channels and anchorage areas off Wonsan, Korea. His loyalty and steadfastness to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
MEANS, JAMES A.
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The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Hospital Corpsman Third Class James A. Means (NSN: 3399046), United States Naval Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with a Marine Infantry Company of the FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 11 September 1951. Hospital Corpsman Third Class Means, a Company Corpsman, displayed outstanding skill, courage, and devotion to duty when the company was in the attack at night. As the leading elements moved forward against well entrenched and bitterly defended enemy positions, he fearlessly and with absolute disregard for his own safety advanced throughout the area swept by enemy machine gun, mortar and artillery fire, treating and comforting the wounded. Although painfully wounded by a mortar burst, he refused to let it be known and only after all the other wounded had been cared for by him and removed to safety, would he allow himself to be evacuated. His selfless conduct in caring for and comforting others while in extreme pain himself was an inspiration to all who observed him. Hospital Corpsman Third Class Means' heroic actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
MELNICKI, JOSEPH F.
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The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star (Army Award) to Hospitalman Joseph F. Melnicki (NSN: 7185810), United States Navy, for gallantry in action as a Medical Corpsman attached to the FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), on 1 June 1951, while conducting a tank-infantry reconnaissance patrol in the vicinity of Yanggu, Korea. When his unit suddenly came under heavy enemy mortar and artillery fire, several casualties were inflicted on the foremost elements of the patrol. Hospitalman Melnicki, heedless of his own personal safety, exposed himself to the intense shelling in order to hasten the aid of several wounded Marines. While treating one, Hospitalman Melnicki suffered a painful shrapnel wound in the leg from a near by explosion. Although bleeding profusely and suffering severe pain, he courageously completed administering to the wounded men; then crawled to the aid of other wounded Marines in the area. Due to heavy fire throughout the area, it was impossible to evacuate the wounded by ambulance or litters. Therefore, Hospitalman Melnicki contacted two nearby tanks, then assisted and supervised the evacuation of the critically wounded by this means. It was only after all the wounded men in the area had been treated and evacuated, that Hospitalman Melnicki, nearing the point of exhaustion, did himself submit to medical aid and evacuation. His devotion to duty and self-sacrificing courage under vicious fire were directly responsible for saving the lives of many of his fallen companions, and served as an inspiration to all who observed him.
MERZ, OLIVER J.
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The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Radioman Third Class Oliver James Merz, Jr. (NSN: 3236850), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while attached to the U.S.S. HENRICO (APA-45) as a Sternhook of an LCM during the amphibious assault against Inchon, Korea, on 15 September 1950, in an area subjected to enemy gunfire. His initiative and courageous action saved the boat crew and embarked troops from death or serious injury when, with complete disregard for his own safety, he picked up and threw overboard a live grenade that had been accidentally dropped in the boat by a Marine. He also distinguished himself during the disembarkation of Marines from his boat when the ramp cable parted allowing the ramp to fall on one Marine member. He pulled the Marine from the water, while under heavy enemy rifle and mortar fire, and administered first aid to him until transfer was effected to the hospital boat. His heroic actions above and beyond the call of duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
METHENY, THELBERT L.
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The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Boatswain's Mate First Class Thelbert L. Metheny (NSN: 3371267), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in the rescue of personnel casualties aboard the U.S.S. BRUSH (DD-745) on 26 September 1950, when the BRUSH struck an enemy mine in North Korean waters. Boatswain's Mate First Class Metheny, without regard for his personal safety, entered Plot, which was oil-drenched, filled with smoke and fumes and a burning inferno, to rescue his shipmates who remained alive in this space. He was able to remove two men who doubtlessly would have perished but for his coolness and tenacity of effort. Boatswain's Mate First Class Metheny also sight-checked five remaining bodies among much debris and live electrical circuits to determine whether or not they could be removed. His unfailing devotion to duty was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
MEZIAS, FERNANDO D.
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The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Hospital Corpsman Second Class Fernando D. Mezias (NSN: 8078788), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with a Marine Infantry Company of the FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 7 August 1952. Serving as Company Corpsman, Hospital Corpsman Second Class Mezias displayed exceptional courage, initiative and devotion to duty. With complete disregard for his personal safety, he moved about in an exposed area under continuous enemy fire in order to administer aid to the wounded. During a period of nine hours, he treated and evacuated thirty-nine seriously wounded Marines while subjected to intense hostile artillery and mortar fire. He was later wounded but continued performing his duties until evacuated to the rear. His indomitable spirit and resourcefulness under enemy fire served as an inspiration to all who observed him and were instrumental in saving the lives of many wounded Marines. Hospital Corpsman Second Class Mezias' gallant and courageous actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
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The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant, Junior Grade John Davidson Middleton (NSN: 0-8386246/521706), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Pilot of a Jet Fighter Plane in Fighter Squadron SEVEN HUNDRED EIGHTY-ONE (VF-781), based on board the U.S.S. ORISKANY (CVA-34), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 18 November 1952. Encountering a numerically superior force of attacking hostile jet aircraft while participating in a combat air patrol mission on station over Task Force SEVENTY-SEVEN, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Middleton unhesitatingly carried out daring firing runs on two enemy fighters. Attacking alone when mechanical difficulties forced his section leader to retire, he scored a hit on one jet plane, causing it to burn and spiral into the sea and, continuing his runs, succeeded in inflicting heavy damage upon a second hostile aircraft which immediately retired from further action. By his outstanding valor, exceptional skill and selfless devotion to duty in the face of heavy enemy aerial opposition, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Middleton materially aided in the successful defense of the Task Force against enemy attack, thereby upholding the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Birmingham, Alabama
MILLER, R. A.
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The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Lieutenant, Junior Grade R. Arthur Miller (NSN: 0-430018), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with Detachment No. 7, Helicopter Squadron ONE at Changyon, Korea, on 14 December 1950. As the pilot of a helicopter, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Miller was assigned the mission of locating and effecting the rescue of friendly troops cut off and isolated deep in enemy held territory. With great skill and courage he landed his aircraft and queried Korean villagers far beyond the friendly front lines. Upon locating some friendly soldiers, he carried out his mission with complete success in the face of direct attack by three hostile jet fighters upon his unarmed and completely unprotected aircraft. Continuing his task over a period of several hours he assisted in evacuating by helicopter, with disregard for his own personal safety, twenty-three soldiers who were cut off and isolated deep in enemy held territory. Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Miller's heroic actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
MILLER, WILLIAM S.
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The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Hospital Corpsman Third Class William S. Miller (NSN: 8763167), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with a Marine Infantry Company of the FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 9 December 1950. Serving as a Medical Corpsman, Hospital Corpsman Third Class Miller was moving with the company in the attack of a strongly defended enemy position when leading elements were subjected to devastating enemy mortar, automatic weapons and small arms fire, causing numerous casualties. Fearlessly and with complete disregard for his personal safety exposing himself to the heavy enemy fire, he advanced to the forward unit and coolly rendered aid to the wounded. Despite the fact that he suffered a severe wound in the back, he courageously refused to seek aid for his own wound, continuing steadfastly to treat his fallen comrades. His great personal bravery and courageous devotion to duty were an inspiration to all who observed him. Hospital Corpsman Third Class Miller's heroic actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
MINTER, HENRY C., JR.
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The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Hospital Corpsman Third Class Henry C. Minter, Jr. (NSN: 4222503), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with a Marine Infantry Company of the FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea from 28 to 30 March 1953. Serving as a Corpsman, Hospital Corpsman Third Class Minter displayed outstanding courage, initiative and devotion to duty. He was a member of a unit that was assaulting a vital enemy held combat outpost position when the unit was subjected to a devastating barrage of hostile mortar and artillery fire. Expressing complete disregard for his personal safety, he courageously moved about the hazardous impact area administering first aid to his stricken comrades and moving them to sheltered positions. Later, during the consolidation of the outpost, several Marines were buried in debris by the intense hostile barrage. With remarkable resourcefulness under the murderous enemy fire, he unhesitatingly began digging to free his imprisoned comrades. After they were freed, he administered aid to them and insured their immediate evacuation to a position of safety. Although a victim of concussion, he fearlessly remained at his position and refused aid until assured that all of the casualties had been cared for. Hospital Corpsman Third Class Minter's gallant and courageous actions served as an inspiration to all who observed him and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
*MISHLER, RUSSELL G. (KIA)
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The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Hospitalman Russell Gordon Mishler (NSN: 3647666), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving as a Corpsman attached to Company B, 1st Battalion, 7th Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in action again enemy aggressor forces in Korea, on 25 January 1951. Immediately answering a cry for help from a casualty during a platoon attack against the enemy, Hospitalman Mishler boldly moved across fire-swept hostile terrain to render assistance. Although exposed to direct enemy machine-gun, mortar and small-arms fire, he bravely continued to administer first aid to the stricken Marine until he was mortally wounded. By his courageous efforts in behalf of others and unswerving devotion to duty, Hospitalman Mishler served to inspire all who observed him and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Home Town: Massillon, Ohio
MITCHELL, TWYMAN D.
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The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Hospital Corpsman Third Class Twyman D. Mitchell, United States Naval Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving as a Medical Corpsman with a Marine Infantry Company of the FIRST Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in Korea, on 7 December 1950. Hospital Corpsman Third Class Mitchell, serving as Company Corpsman, displayed exceptional courage and bravery while his company was on the verge of being overrun by a battalion of enemy troops who were subjecting the company to heavy automatic fire and hand grenades. Despite mounting pain from a wound received by automatic fire, he declined to be evacuated and continued to administer first aid to the numerous wounded Marines. Not until after the fire fight had subsided and all other wounded men were evacuated did he allow himself to be evacuated to the battalion aid station. While at the aid station he learned that his company was without a corpsman, and realizing the seriousness of the situation, without hesitation, he walked and climbed over rough frozen terrain to return to duty. By his utter disregard for his own wound, which was serious enough to require his evacuation, he displayed a courage and unselfish devotion to duty that contributed greatly toward saving the lives of many wounded Marines who were suffering from extreme exposure. Hospital Corpsman Third Class Mitchell's heroic actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
*MOORE, EDWIN C. (POW)
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The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant Edwin Cecil Moore (NSN: 0-304299), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity during combat rescue operations deep in enemy territory, northwest of Wonsan, Korea, on 8 February 1952, while serving as Officer-in-Charge, Helicopter Unit 21, attached to U.S.S. MANCHESTER (CL-83), and engaged in a rescue mission. After his aircraft was forced down and damaged while hovering to pick up a seriously injured pilot, Lieutenant Moore steadfastly sacrificed his own chances of prompt rescue by refusing to leave when another helicopter landed in the area but not within reach of the injured man. Knowing full well the hazards involved, he rendered first aid and assisted the injured pilot to the most probable place of rescue. Adverse conditions prevented the successful conclusion of the rescue efforts, and the officers are now missing in action. The gallant conduct and self-sacrifice of Lieutenant Moore in the face of extreme peril were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
MORRIS, LESTER A.
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The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Hospital Corpsman First Class Lester A. Morris (NSN: 5559486), United States Naval Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving as a Corpsman with a Marine Rifle Company of the FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 31 May 1951. Hospital Corpsman First Class Morris displayed outstanding qualities of professional skill and courage in the performance of his duties as a Company Corpsman. Advancing with the company in the assault of well dug in and heavily defended enemy positions on a densely wooded ridge, he received a painful wound, but, observing a comrade lying wounded in an exposed position, he ignored heavy enemy fire to reach him and administer first aid. Although suffering from pain and loss of blood he continued to move with the company, searching out and treating many wounded Marines until he was again hit, and had to be evacuated. Hospital Corpsman First Class Morris' courageous devotion to duty was an inspiration to all the men of the company, and was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
*MURPHY, FRANCIS P. (KIA)
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The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Hospital Corpsman First Class Lester A. Morris (NSN: 5559486), United States Naval Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving as a Corpsman with a Marine Rifle Company of the FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 31 May 1951. Hospital Corpsman First Class Morris displayed outstanding qualities of professional skill and courage in the performance of his duties as a Company Corpsman. Advancing with the company in the assault of well dug in and heavily defended enemy positions on a densely wooded ridge, he received a painful wound, but, observing a comrade lying wounded in an exposed position, he ignored heavy enemy fire to reach him and administer first aid. Although suffering from pain and loss of blood he continued to move with the company, searching out and treating many wounded Marines until he was again hit, and had to be evacuated. Hospital Corpsman First Class Morris' courageous devotion to duty was an inspiration to all the men of the company, and was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Detroit, Michigan
NEARY, JAMES K.
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The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Hospital Corpsman Third Class James K. Neary (NSN: 7998656), United States Naval Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with a Marine Infantry Company of the FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 12 October 1951. Hospital Corpsman Third Class Neary, a Platoon Corpsman, displayed unusual fortitude and loyalty to his comrades while accompanying a combat patrol in enemy territory. Disregarding his own safety, he entered an enemy minefield to give assistance when he saw a Marine seriously wounded by an exploding mine. While rendering aid to his fallen comrade, he was himself wounded by a mine and suffered the loss of his left foot. Despite severe shock, extreme pain, and the loss of blood, he continued to treat the wounded Marine and assured his safe evacuation to friendly lines. Only then did he attend to his own serious wound. His ability to perform his specialty skillfully in spite of his tremendous handicap enabled the patrol to move quickly from under enemy observation and fire and return to friendly lines without further casualties. Hospital Corpsman Third Class Neary's courage and determination were an inspiration to all who observed him and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Detroit, Michigan
NORMOYLE, FRANCIS E.
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The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Hospitalman Francis E. Normoyle (NSN: 3880513), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with a Marine Infantry Company of the FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 25 September 1950. Hospital Normoyle was acting as a Corpsman when his platoon was engaged in a heavy fire fight with a well entrenched and concealed enemy. When he observed three wounded Marines lying in an exposed position he fearlessly and courageously exposed himself to administer aid. Despite the intense enemy fire, he succeeded in removing two of the wounded to a covered position. While advancing to the third wounded Hospitalman Normoyle was painfully and seriously wounded in the face. Despite his painful wounds and loss of blood, he refused to be evacuated and continued to pull the third wounded Marine to safety. He continued to administer aid to the wounded until he became so weak from loss of blood that he was ordered to be evacuated. Hospitalman Normoyle's heroic actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
NORTHCOTT, THOMAS V.
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The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Chief Hospitalman Thomas V. Northcott, United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving as a Medical Corpsman with a Marine Infantry Battalion of the FIRST Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in Korea, on 21 September 1950. During the attack by his battalion, Chief Hospitalman Northcott, serving as a Battalion Aid Man, repeatedly and fearlessly exposed himself to heavy enemy fire to administer aid and evacuate the wounded Marines. While he was administering aid to a wounded Marine he was wounded by enemy mortar fire. Despite the pain, and suffering from loss of blood, he refused medical attention and courageously drove the ambulance on four evacuation missions to the forward areas. As a member of a two-man team he succeeded in rendering first aid and returning to the Battalion Aid Station with an ambulance load of wounded Marines on each mission. By his display of initiative and courageous actions he materially aided the wounded Marines in receiving medical attention much earlier than would otherwise have been possible and was a constant inspiration to all the members of the battalion. Chief Hospitalman Northcott's heroic actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
O'DELL, BOBBY J.
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The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Hospitalman Bobby J. O'Dell (NSN: 2910785), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving as a Corpsman attached to a Marine Infantry Company of the FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 1 - 2 December 1950. Hospitalman O'Dell displayed great skill, courage, and confidence in the performance of his duties. During a period when his company was pinned down by accurate enemy automatic weapons fire, with complete disregard for his own personal safety, he crawled over fire-swept enemy fire to render first aid to two wounded Marines. After treating the two wounded Marines he then attempted to evacuate another seriously wounded Marine and in so doing was himself seriously wounded. His devotion to duty and gallantry were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
PALMER, ASA
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The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Hospitalman Asa Palmer (NSN: 7197584), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with a Marine Infantry Company of the FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 28 May 1952. Hospitalman Palmer, serving as a Corpsman, displayed exceptional courage and professional skill in the performance of his duties. After taking an enemy hill, the unit set in defensive positions. Almost immediately, enemy mortars, artillery and small arms fire began to cause many friendly casualties including several other Corpsmen. Realizing the need of his services, not only in his own platoon sector but throughout the company area, Hospitalman Palmer ran through intense enemy fire, from platoon to platoon, administering to the wounded and directing their evacuation. When told of a seriously wounded Marine from another platoon who was lying in the middle of a mine field, he unhesitatingly went after the man, dressed his wounds, found a stretcher, and directed another Marine through the field so that they could carry the wounded man to the evacuation station. He remained on the hill until the last elements had withdrawn in order to care for all wounded. Through his devotion to duty the lives of his wounded comrades were saved. Hospitalman Palmer's courageous actions were an inspiration to all who observed him and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
PARK, CLAIRE E.
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The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Hospitalman Third Class Claire Everett Park (NSN: 3180738), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as a Company Corpsman serving with a Marine Infantry Company, FIRST Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 20 September 1950. During a fierce enemy counterattack against his company, Hospitalman Third Class Park courageously moved through intense hostile fire, seeking out casualties and administering aid to the wounded. Although painfully wounded a the height of the fire fight and suffering from loss of blood, he steadfastly refused medical attention for his own wounds, resolutely continuing his heroic efforts until ordered to submit to treatment. By his daring initiative, unflagging determination and selfless devotion to duty in the face of grave personal risk, Hospital Corpsman Third Class Parks was responsible for procuring medical aid for the wounded much more rapidly than would otherwise have been possible and thereby upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
PETERSON, SIDNEY A.
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The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Boatswain's Mate Third Class Sidney Adolph Peterson (NSN: 2747367), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity and meritorious devotion to duty as Coxswain of a landing craft operating from U.S.S. HORACE A. BASS (APD-124) during a reconnaissance mission on the west coast of Korea, on 19 January 1951. When the reconnaissance party was taken under heavy fire from enemy guerrillas, he skillfully maneuvered his boat to within fifty yards of the hostile shore and calmly maintained the boat in position for recovery of the shore party despite treacherous tidal currents and high winds. In the face of direct fire from the enemy, he steadfastly held his station in control of the boat even though wounded. With complete disregard for his own safety he exposed himself to the intense fire until he was seriously wounded a second time and collapsed after a bullet had shattered his knee. His superb seamanship and cool courage resulted in the rescue of many men who would otherwise have perished in the frigid waters. His actions reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
PONSOR, REX E.
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The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Hospital Corpsman Third Class Rex E. Ponsor, United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving as a Medical Corpsman with a Marine Engineer Company of the FIRST Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in Korea, on 13 March 1953. Hospital Corpsman Third Class Ponsor displayed outstanding courage, initiative and devotion to duty. While he was working with a camouflage detail, it was suddenly subjected to intense enemy artillery fire. After seeking the safety of a nearby bunker, he noticed a wounded Marine lying in the open under the direct observation of the enemy. Expressing complete disregard for his personal safety, he unhesitatingly left his covered position and courageously advanced under devastating hostile artillery fire to render aid to his injured comrade. Although painfully wounded while administering the medical aid, he left the wounded Marine only after he had been successfully evacuated. Hospital Corpsman Third Class Ponsor's gallant and courageous actions served as an inspiration to all who observed him and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
PRICE, PAUL D.
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The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Hospitalman Paul D. Price (NSN: 5688751), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with a Marine Infantry Battalion of the FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea from 27 November to 3 December 1950. Hospitalman Price, serving as Company Corpsman with a rifle company continuously exposed himself to enemy fire in the evacuation and care of the wounded. On 27 November 1950, while his company was assaulting a hill in the vicinity of Yudam-ni, Korea, Hospitalman Price voluntarily, and at the risk of his own life, left a covered position and made repeated trips in the face of severe machine gun and small arms fire and advanced forward to an enemy fire-swept area to evacuate the wounded Marines. His actions were an inspiration to the company and his timely aid contributed materially to the saving of many lives. Hospitalman Price's heroic actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
PRINDLE, DONALD C.
Citation:
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Hospitalman Third Class Donald C. Prindle, United States Naval Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving as a Medical Corpsman with a Marine Infantry Company of the FIRST Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in Korea, on 25 June 1951. Hospital Corpsman Third Class Prindle displayed great personal bravery and devotion to duty while the platoon to which he was attached was on a reconnaissance patrol. When a Marine was wounded by a land mine, he immediately and with complete disregard for his own safety rushed into the mined area to aid the painfully wounded man. Another mine three feet away exploded and severely wounded him, but he refused medical attention and continued treating his patient despite his injured arm and lacerated face. While returning to friendly lines, he maintained a constant vigil by the side of the wounded Marine over a route of 1,500 yards of terrain swept by enemy small arms and automatic weapons fire. Only after the platoon had reached relative safety and obtained medical aid, did he permit himself to be evacuated. Hospital Corpsman Third Class Prindle's heroic actions served as an inspiration to all members of the command, and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
PRINTUP, CARTER A.
Citation:
The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star (Army Award) to Captain Carter A. Printup (NSN: 0-59664), United States Navy, for gallantry in action as Commander, U.S.S. MOUNT McKINLEY (AGC-7), Joint Task Force SEVEN, United Nations Command. Captain Printup distinguished himself by conspicuous gallantry in action in the Inchon-Seoul operation during the period 15 September to 21 September 1950. His actions contributed materially to the success of this operation and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Military Service.
RADEL, FREDERICK M.
Citation:
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Commander Frederick M. Radel (NSN: 0-82757), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving as Commanding Officer of U.S.S. GURKE (DD-783) in Korea, from 13 to 15 September 1950. Commander Radel navigated his ship through an enemy mine field, engaged enemy shore batteries at close range, and contributed greatly to the successful amphibious landings at Inchon.
RAGAN, WILLIAM H.
Citation:
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Seaman William H. Ragan (NSN: 2113999), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy during the amphibious assault landings at Inchon, Korea, on 15 September 1950. As coxswain of a landing craft while preparing to return from landing troops on a hostile beachhead, Seaman Ragan noticed a small group of Marines on the beach receiving heavy enemy fire, some of whom had been wounded. He returned to the beach without regard for his own personal safety, rescued a seriously wounded Marine and transported him to safety. His daring initiative and courage were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
RALSTON, ELDON
Citation:
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Hospitalman Third Class Eldon Ralston, United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Medical Corpsman with a Marine Infantry Company of the FIRST Marine Division (Rein), FMF, in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea, on 28 March 1953. While advancing with his company toward an outpost position to commence an assault, Hospitalman Third Class Ralston discovered numerous wounded men from other companies lying around the battlefield. Ignoring his own painful wounds, he courageously moved about through murderous hostile mortar and artillery fire to administer aid to the stricken men. Discovering one seriously wounded Marine who required immediate evacuation, he fearlessly carried him several hundred yards back to a check-point aid station and, after receiving treatment himself, refused evacuation in order to return to his company, which was engaged in the second assault on the outpost. Immediately after joining the unit, he moved through a devastating enemy barrage, rendering aid to his wounded comrades until forced to discontinue his efforts due to his own loss of blood. By his exceptional courage, fortitude and indomitable spirit, Hospitalman Third Class Ralston served to inspire all who observed him and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
RAMBY, VIVIAN D.
Citation:
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Hospitalman Vivian D. Ramby, Jr. (NSN: 3615376), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as a Medical Corpsman with a Marine Infantry Company of the FIRST Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea, on 28 October 1951. Although seriously wounded in the arms and legs when his unit was subjected to a devastating hostile mortar barrage, Hospitalman Ramby bravely exposed himself to the heavy fire to administer aid to a forward observer who was nearly blinded by fragmentation in both eyes. After leading his wounded comrades to the safety of friendly lines, he continued to treat other casualties before consenting to aid and evacuation for himself. By his outstanding courage, inspiring initiative and selfless efforts in behalf of others, Hospitalman Ramby was directly responsible for the speedy treatment and evacuation of many painfully wounded Marines and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
RAY, CHARLES S.
Citation:
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Hospital Corpsman Third Class Charles S. Ray (NSN: 5687655), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with a Marine Infantry Battalion of the FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 6 December 1950. Hospital Corpsman Third Class Ray, serving as a Corpsman, was near the battalion aid station during an enemy ambush of the battalion column. With complete disregard for his own personal safety, he advanced from a covered position in the face of enemy machine gun and hand grenade fire to a tank that had become stalled when the crewmen were overcome by exhaust fumes. He removed the five crewmen and administered artificial respiration to them while still under heavy enemy fire. The heroic actions of Hospital Corpsman Third Class Ray thereby saved the lives of the five crewmen who were able to re-man their tank and re-enter action. The subsequent actions of this tank neutralized the enemy resistance and permitted passage of the convoy column which had been unable to move because the tank had blocked the road. He thereby contributed materially to the successful completion of the mission of his battalion. Hospital Corpsman Third Class Ray's actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
RAYMOND, CHESTER C.
Citation:
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Hospitalman Chester C. Raymond, Jr. (NSN: 4265621), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving as a Corpsman with a Marine Infantry Company of the FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea from 12 to 16 August 1952. With complete disregard for his personal safety, Hospitalman Raymond continuously exposed himself to heavy enemy artillery, mortar and small arms fire while administering aid to the wounded along a trail near an important terrain feature. He repeatedly made trips along the trail to this area until he became so exhausted that he was ordered to stay at the forward aid station on the main line of resistance. While in the aid station he learned that a stretcher party had been ambushed on the trail. Unhesitatingly he proceeded alone to the point of ambush, killing one enemy and driving another away under fire in order to reach the wounded. Despite his exhausted condition he reached the casualties and administered first aid. Hospitalman Raymond's selfless devotion to duty was an inspiration to all who observed him. His gallant and courageous actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
REESE, WILLIAM E.
Citation:
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Hospitalman William E. Reese (NSN: 5713238), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with a Marine Infantry Company of the FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 7 and 8 March 1951. Serving as a Medical Corpsman, Hospitalman Reese displayed outstanding courage and initiative in the performance of his duties. Moving with the company in the attack of a series of strongly defended enemy positions, he fearlessly and with complete disregard for his personal safety exposed himself constantly to withering enemy mortar, automatic weapons and small arms fire to render aid to casualties despite a painful wound in the hand. When the company was forced to dig in for the night in a small area swept by enemy mortar and sniper fire, he courageously refused to seek cover, remaining exposed throughout the night to give aid and comfort to the wounded. During the continuation of the attack at dawn he continued his fearless devotion to duty until he was wounded for a second time, and forced to submit to evacuation. Hospitalman Reese's great personal bravery and heroic actions were an inspiration to all who observed him, and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
ROBERTS, MICHAEL F.
Citation:
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Hospitalman Michael Franklin Roberts (NSN: 4207148), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as a Corpsman attached to Recon Platoon, Headquarters and Service Company, Third Battalion, First Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea, on 12 and 13 August 1952. When his unit was cut off by a large hostile force during a mission to probe a critical ridge forward of the main line of resistance to determine the enemy's strength and position of its flanks, Hospitalman Roberts repeatedly exposed himself t o an intense hostile mortar and artillery barrage to render aid to several wounded Marines. After reorganizing, the unit again moved forward in the face of heavy enemy fire to increase the protection of the company's exposed left flank. Although the hostile troops attacked at regimental strength during the night with devastating rounds of artillery and mortar fire for a period of eight and one-half hours, Hospitalman Roberts fearlessly made his way along the entire company front to treat the wounded and insure evacuation. Discovering, early the next morning, that the enemy had increased their mortar barrages and succeeded in inflicting heavy casualties upon the company, he again moved from one position to another, despite intense hostile fore, for over a period of six hours, treating the wounded and lending words of encouragement. By his marked courage, outstanding skill and selfless efforts in behalf of others, Hospitalman Roberts materially aided in saving many lives and served to inspire all who observed him, thereby upholding the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Maple Heights, Ohio
RODERICK, STANLEY L.
Citation:
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Hospitalman Stanley L. Roderick (NSN: 3305154), United States Naval Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with a Marine Infantry Company of the FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 28 May 1951. As a Corpsman in a Rifle Platoon, Hospitalman Roderick was in the attack with his unit when the platoon was ordered to withdraw temporarily from the steep hill and wait for supporting fire. At this moment he noticed a Marine, wounded in both arms and legs, located very close to the enemy and unable to move to safety. With complete disregard for his own personal safety, he rushed forward in the face of intense enemy automatic weapons, small arms and grenade fire to reach the wounded man. He then moved the disabled Marine all the way down the precipitous slope, still exposed to heavy enemy fire, until he secured the evacuation of his patient. His exceptional courage and devotion to duty under fire were an inspiration to all who observed him, and contributed to saving the life of a Marine. Hospitalman Roderick's heroic actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
RODERICK, STANLEY L.
Citation:
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star to Hospitalman Stanley L. Roderick (NSN: 3305154), United States Naval Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving as a Corpsman with a Marine Infantry Company of the FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 16 June 1951. Hospitalman Roderick displayed outstanding qualities of professional skill and courage in the performance of his duties as a Corpsman. During the attack on a steep and well defended hill near Inje, the assault elements of the company were taken under intense fire from a cleverly camouflaged enemy machine gun only twenty yards to their front, and from automatic weapons on both flanks. Three men were instantly killed, seventeen wounded and the company advance halted. Unhesitatingly, he rushed through the withering fire and, completely disregarding his own safety, began to administer first aid to the wounded. Although the enemy added mortars to the heavy fire already sweeping the area, he continued to move from man to man treating their wounds and helping to move them to covered positions for a period of over forty-five minutes. Only after all the casualties had been removed from the danger zone, did he seek cover himself. Hospitalman Roderick's courageous actions undoubtedly saved the lives of several wounded comrades, and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
ROYER, LARRY E.
Citation:
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Hospitalman Larry E. Royer (NSN: 4265056), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with a Marine Infantry Company of the FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 5 July 1952. Hospitalman Royer, serving as a Corpsman, participated in a night raid against a heavily defended enemy position. Discovering that a Marine had been wounded forward of the friendly base of fire, Hospitalman Royer left his covered position and ran through the intense enemy mortar and automatic weapons fire to the side of the wounded Marine. He dragged the man into a shell crater and began to administer first aid. Although an enemy machine gun was firing directly over his head and, on one occasion a mortar blast blew the medical scissors from his hand, he fearlessly continued to administer first aid and encourage the painfully wounded man. While waiting for friendly fire to destroy the enemy machine gun, Hospitalman Royer fought off several enemy grenadiers with his pistol. During the withdrawal he assisted in carrying the wounded back into friendly positions. His outstanding attention to duty, without regard for his own safety was an inspiration to all who observed him. Hospitalman Royer's courageous actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
ROYER, LARRY E.
Citation:
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star to Hospitalman Larry E. Royer (NSN: 4265056), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with a Marine Infantry Company of the FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 6 September 1952. Serving as a Corpsman, Hospitalman Royer displayed outstanding courage, initiative and devotion to duty when the outpost was subjected to heavy enemy mortar and artillery fire. As the enemy launched numerically superior infantry assaults on the small outpost, he expressed complete disregard for his personal safety and moved about the exposed area, treating the casualties and helping them to the few covered positions available. When he had exhausted his supply of medications, he continued to move from position to position, encouraging the wounded Marines and checking on their condition. A the enemy pressed the assault, he protected the casualties although armed only with a pistol. He personally killed or wounded seven of the hostile troops and when the attack had subsided, he assisted in the evacuation of the injured men. Hospitalman Royer's gallant and courageous actions were instrumental in saving the lives of many of the wounded Marines and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
1st Award
Citation:
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Commander Richard Waynick Ruble (NSN: 0-58209), United States Navy, for gallantry and intrepidity in action with the enemy while serving as Navigation Officer of the Aircraft Carrier U.S.S. ENTERPRISE (CV-6) throughout all of the engagements since the beginning of the war, and particularly in the Stewart Island engagement on 24 August 1942, and the action against Japanese naval forces near Santa Cruz Islands on 26 October 1942, in both of which battles that vessel was heavily attacked by large numbers of enemy aircraft. Commander Ruble's cool, deliberate, and able assistance to the Captain on the bridge, given with complete disregard for his own personal safety, contributed immeasurably to the success of his ship in these engagements. His display of exceptional courage and ability under fire was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born: Ouray, Colorado
Home Town: Ouray, Colorado
Citation:
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Commander Robert Ayres Schelling, United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action in Korea as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. LYMAN K. SWENSON (DD-729). Commander Schelling navigated his ship through an enemy mine field, engaged enemy shore batteries at close range, and contributed greatly to the successful amphibious landings at Inchon. His actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
SCHLANSKY, ARTHUR H.
Citation:
The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Hospitalman Arthur Henry Schlansky (NSN: 7184750), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with a Marine Infantry Company of the FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 28 September 1950. Hospitalman Schlansky, serving as a Corpsman in an infantry company, displayed outstanding skill, courage, and confidence in the performance of his duties. During an engagement with numerically superior enemy forces, though subjected to direct enemy small arms, mortar and machine gun fire, he continually moved through the company administering aid to the wounded Marines. Although the enemy fire continued and there was little chance of his escaping injury, he refused to take cover and went about his task of caring for the wounded until he was mortally wounded and gallantly gave his life for his country. His aggressive actions, devotion to duty, and complete disregard for his own personal safety served as an inspiration to all who observed him and were directly instrumental in saving the lives of many wounded Marines. Hospitalman Schlansky's heroic actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Brooklyn, New York
SCHUELLER, MERLIN H.
Citation:
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Hospitalman Merlin H. Schueller (NSN: 3225292), United States Naval Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with a Marine Infantry Company of the FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 10 June 1951. Serving as a Medical Corpsman, Hospitalman Schueller was moving with the company in the attack of a strongly fortified enemy position when the unit was subjected to intense and accurate enemy automatic weapons, mortar and small arms fire, causing numerous casualties, and he himself was seriously wounded in the leg and feet. Although he was unable to walk, he courageously crawled among his fallen comrades, skillfully rendering first aid. When the fighting had passed beyond that area, and all casualties had been evacuated, he then refused to be carried on a stretcher, because of a shortage, and instead hopped and crawled to the aid station over a tortuous route. His bravery and outstanding devotion to duty were an inspiration to all who observed him. Hospitalman Schueller's heroic actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Waterloo, Iowa
SCRIBNER, CHARLES L.
Citation:
The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star (Army Award) to Hospital Corpsman Third Class Charles L. Scribner (NSN: 9545503), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as a Corpsman attached to the First Battalion, Fifth Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on in the vicinity of Yongsan, Korea, on 18 August 1950. On this date Hospitalman Scribner was at the forward aid station of his Battalion which was attacking enemy positions on ridges east of Yongsan. Hearing that many wounded men were on a fire-swept ridge awaiting evacuation he organized a litter bearing team of volunteer Korean civilians, and with utter disregard for his own safety, fearlessly led them through heavy enemy small arms, automatic weapons and mortar fire. By his initiative and example, he encouraged the litter team to continue under the heavy enemy fire. By his aggressive efforts many seriously wounded men were evacuated to the aid station and several lives were saved. Hospitalman Scribner's heroic actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
SEARS, NORMAL W.
Citation:
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Commander [then Lieutenant Commander] Normal Walker Sears (NSN: 0-59557), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity aboard the U.S.S. ATLANTA (CL-51), during action against enemy Japanese naval forces in the Solomon Islands Area on 13 November 1942. After his ship was badly damaged in the course of the engagement, Commander Sears, when informed that the Plotting Room was flooding, immediately rushed below to ascertain the extent of danger and take steps to effect control. Although, upon emerging from the hatch, he was seriously wounded by fragments of bursting shell, he nevertheless made a valiant effort to continue the supervision and direction of repair. His courageous determination and conscientious devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Beverly, Massachusetts
SEARS, NORMAL W.
Citation:
The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star (Army Award) to Captain Normal Walker Sears (NSN: 0-59557), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action as Chief of Staff, Attack Force SEVEN, United Nations Command, in the Inchon-Seoul operations during the period 15 September to 21 September 1950. His actions contributed to the success of this operation and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service.
Home Town: Beverly, Massachusetts
SGARLATO, ANTHONY S.
Citation:
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Hospitalman Anthony S. Sgarlato (NSN: 2357256), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving as a Corpsman with a Marine Infantry Company of the FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 20 June 1952. Hospitalman Sgarlato with one Marine voluntarily left a combat outpost at Nung-Dong surrounded by enemy to treat three wounded Marines in a valley 700 yards away where the presence of an unknown number of enemy was realized. He found the wounded and directed the two able to walk to the combat outpost while he skillfully treated the third. As this Marine was unable to walk or crawl due to severe feet and leg wounds, he carried him on his back. On four occasions he was pinned down by enemy automatic weapons fire, each time placing the wounded Marine under cover until he believed it safe to move forward again. After one hour he reached the combat outpost. His exceptional heroism and devotion to duty were an inspiration to all who observed him. Hospitalman Sgarlato's courageous actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
*SHAW, WILLIAM H. (KIA)
Citation:
The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Lieutenant William Hamilton Shaw (NSN: 257303), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving as Special Interpreter and Liaison Officer attached to the Fifth Regiment, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 22 September 1950. Lieutenant Shaw courageously volunteered to accompany a front line battalion in order to conduct on the spot interrogation of prisoners and civilians and to point out critical terrain features for the assault companies. Having been born and raised in Pyongyang, Korea, his services were of inestimable value and his knowledge of the terrain was of material aid in planning the attack. When he learned that a combat patrol was assigned the mission of entering and clearing a native village he voluntarily accompanied the patrol and while leading the patrol through the village he was mortally wounded and gallantly gave his life for his country. Lieutenant Shaw's display of initiative and heroic actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
SHEWMAKER, ROBERT E.
Citation:
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Yeoman Third Class Robert E. Shewmaker (NSN: 3447036), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while attached to and serving on board the U.S.S. PARTRIDGE (AMS-31), on 2 February 1951. When that ship struck an enemy mine while engaged in minesweeping operations in the Korean combat zone, two men were seriously injured and pinned down in the wreckage. With the aid of another, he successfully rescued these two men. Not until the vessel began to sink rapidly did he abandon ship. By his aggressive initiative coupled with complete disregard for his own safety, Yeoman Third Class Shewmaker contributed greatly to the safety of his shipmates, and his zealous devotion to duty was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
SILVER, MORTON L.
Citation:
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant, Junior Grade (DC) Morton I. Silver, United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action as Dental Officer attached to the Fifth Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea from 27 November to 4 December 1950. On the night of 27 November 1950, when the Regimental Aid Station was under attack by a numerically superior enemy force employing small arms, machine guns and grenades, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Silver, serving as Regimental Dentist, with absolute disregard for his own personal safety, repeatedly and fearlessly exposed himself to heavy and direct enemy fire to assist the Regimental Surgeon administer aid and comfort to the regimental casualties. As the attack increased in intensity, he unhesitatingly reorganized a section of Corpsmen and integrated them into the receiving station, thereby insuring that orderly, rapid care of casualties could continue. On 3 December 1950, while the regiment was on the march to Hagaru-ri, Korea, enemy grenades were dropped from positions on mountain sides overlooking the road into a section of the main body he was assigned. Immediately he moved back to the area of the explosions and administered aid to two wounded Marines, then directed their evacuation to vehicles in the march. On another occasion, during the same day, although the area was subjected to grazing machine gun and a barrage of mortar fire, he fearlessly moved to an exposed area, picked up and carried two litter patients that had been previously cared for to passing vehicles, thereby undoubtedly preventing them from receiving further wounds. Between 0100 and 0400 on 4 December 1950, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Silver, at great risk to his person, assumed command of the confusion resulting from an overturned truck and trailer which pinned four Marines in the wreckage. The truck carrying patients, parachutes and primer cord had slid off the icy road and overturned down an embankment and patients, parachute rigging and explosive became a tangle. Within a period of twenty minutes, he had successfully extricated all Marines and began administering aid to the injured. Not having a splint available, he broke pieces of boards from the trailer with which to make adequate splints for the patient suffering from a compound fracture of both legs. For approximately three hours he administered aid and loaded on passing vehicles twenty patients that were in the wrecked vehicle and trailer. His gallant aggressive actions, constant efficient application of medical assistance and continued disregard for his own life were an inspiration to all who observed him, and directly contributed to the high state of morale within his regiment. Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Silver's display of outstanding courage and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
SLOAN, MARSHALL
Citation:
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Hospital Corpsman Third Class Marshall Sloan, United States Naval Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving as a Medical Corpsman with a Rifle Platoon attached to a Marine Infantry Company of the FIRST Marine Division, in action at Korea, on 27 November 1952. When an outnumbering enemy force launched a fanatical attack against his platoon's position, Corpsman Sloan repeatedly exposed himself to direct enemy fire to search for and administer aid to wounded Marines. Although he himself was wounded and suffering severe pain, he steadfastly refused to be evacuated and continued administering aid and directing the rapid evacuation of casualties. Forced to submit to evacuation when struck by enemy fire a second time as the intensity of the attack increased, Corpsman Sloan, by his daring initiative, extraordinary heroism and grave concern for others at great risk to his own life, contributed to the saving of many lives and served as an inspiration to all who observed him. His staunch devotion to duty reflects the highest credit upon himself and the United States Naval Service.
SMALL, SELDON C.
Citation:
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Commander Selden Clobridge Small (NSN: 0-71604), United States Navy, for meritorious service during the period 12 August to 25 August 1950, while Commander of the Naval Element of a Special Operations Group which conducted a series of night demolition raids and beach reconnaissance against the enemy on the coasts of Korea. Commander Small, together with Commander Troop Element, skillfully planned the operations and carefully coordinated and trained all elements for these raids and beach reconnaissances. Under his determined leadership the task element successfully completed their missions in three night demolition raids, thereby inflicting considerable damage to enemy lines of supply and communications. Again under his leadership the task element successfully conducted night beach reconnaissances and surveys of three beaches, thereby obtaining valuable intelligence information. His leadership, skill, and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
SMITH, EDWIN P.
(1st Award)
Citation:
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant, Junior Grade Edwin P. Smith, Jr. (NSN: 0-412097), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with Underwater Demolition Team ONE and serving with Special Operations Group, Amphibious Group ONE, Pacific Fleet, in night demolition raids against targets 200 to 300 miles behind enemy lines on the east coast of North Korea during the period 12 to 16 August 1950. Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Smith particularly distinguished himself. Serving as a scout and swimmer for the Special Operations Group, he swam ashore from a rubber boat in the face of unknown enemy opposition, reconnoitered each objective area and then signaled the balance of the raiding group to land their rubber boats. Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Smith then supervised the rigging of each objective for demolition and remained ashore after the raider group had left the beach to pull fuses and initiate each explosion. As a result of his conspicuous and outstanding bravery during three demolition raids, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Smith materially assisted in the destruction of three railroad tunnels and two railroad bridges along the enemy main coastal line of supply and communications. His bravery, gallantry, and outstanding devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
SMITH, EDWIN P.
(2nd Award)
Citation:
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star to Lieutenant, Junior Grade Edwin P. Smith, Jr. (NSN: 0-412097), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action as Wave Guide while attached to Underwater Demolition Team ONE during the amphibious assault against Inchon, Korea, on 15 September 1950. As LVT Wave Guido for the first assault wave on the Blue Beach area, he contributed greatly to the precise timing and coordination with which these operations were stages. When it was found necessary to divert waves scheduled for Blue Beach ONE, he remained in the immediate vicinity of the beach under enemy fire and personally guided successive waves to Blue Beach THREE. When a hospital boat making an attempt to evacuate a casualty from the left flank of Beach ONE was driven off by hostile fire Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Smith directed the beaching of his assault boat to remove the casualty and transferred him to the hospital boat off shore. Upon completion of the assault phase, he led rescue boats and evacuated a detachment of the landing force from the seawall of the Inchon Tidal Basin, while under enemy fire. His inspiring leadership, courage, and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
SMITH, JOHN D.
Citation:
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Hospitalman John D. Smith (NSN: 3036105), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with a Marine Infantry Company of the FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 29 - 30 November 1952. Serving as Company Corpsman, Hospitalman Smith displayed outstanding courage, initiative and devotion to duty. Although struck down by concussion, he ignored his own condition in an effort to continue administering aid to the numerous casualties in the company throughout the night. Disregarding the intense enemy mortar and artillery fire, he fearlessly moved across open ground to the side of his comrades in need. Exhibiting indomitable spirit, under the most adverse conditions, he continued to work for almost twelve hours until a latent blindness occurred and only when it became total, did he unwillingly abandon his treatment of the wounded. Even then he stayed by their side and continued to raise their spirits with his words of encouragement. His untiring efforts during the twelve hours of impending blindness were instrumental in saving the lives of many Marines. Hospitalman Smith's gallant and intrepid actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Citation:
The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Lieutenant Ralph Arthur Smith (NSN: 0-320896), United States Naval Reserve, for gallantry in action against an armed enemy as Pilot of a night attack plane attached to Composite Squadron THIRTY-FIVE (VC-35), on board the U.S.S. BOXER (CV-21), on 7 July 1953. While flying a night interdiction mission over Communist-held North Korea against enemy transportation facilities in the Anbyon area, Lieutenant Smith discovered a long string of truck traffic on a highway running through the heavily-defended valley south of Anbyon. Disregarding the extreme hazards concerned, he commenced bombing attacks by flare-light through extremely accurate anti-aircraft fire, and though hit in one wing by an explosive 20-mm. shell, succeeded in blowing up and destroying fifteen trucks loaded with vital supplies for attacking front-line troops. Running the gamut of well over one hundred anti-aircraft guns situated along the valley, Lieutenant Smith, knowing full-well that the element of surprise would be gone, and that by then every gun would be manned and firing, reversed his course and flew backup the valley through his own flare-light, and though his plane was hit again by an explosive shell, succeeded in destroying at least ten more loaded trucks with accurate bombing and strafing attacks. By his outstanding airmanship and extraordinary courage in the face of overwhelming opposition, Lieutenant Smith incalculably assisted the combat efforts of the United Nations Forces then under attack all along the front lines. His daring initiative and steadfast devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Salina, Kansas
SPORRER, OTTO E.
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The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star (Army Award) to Lieutenant Commander (CC) Otto E. Sporrer (NSN: 0-215778), United States Navy, for gallantry in action against an armed enemy while serving as Chaplain, First Battalion, Eleventh Marines, First Provisional Marine Brigade, in action in the Yongsan area of the Naktong River, Korea, on 18 August 1950. On this date, Lieutenant Commander Sporrer, in his capacity as Catholic Chaplain visited the forward aid station of the Fifth Marines, then in attack on enemy positions of the ridges west of the Naktong River. Learning that a number of wounded were on the ridges awaiting evacuation, Lieutenant Commander Sporrer organized a litter bearing team of Korean Civilians, and, showing a high degree of courage and skill, led them through heavy small arms, automatic weapons, and mortar fire. By his leadership and example, Lieutenant Commander Sporrer encouraged the litter team to continue even after they had been pinned down by enemy fire. He then succeeded in evacuating a number of seriously wounded to the aid station. The gallantry displayed by Lieutenant Commander Sporrer reflects great credit on himself and the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: California
ST. AMAND, GILBERT E.J.
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The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Hospital Corpsman Third Class Gilbert E. J. St. Amand (NSN: 2097610), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving as a Medical Corpsman attached to a Marine Infantry Company of the FIRST Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea, on 12 June 1951. Observing an enemy hand grenade fall on the chest of a wounded man when the company was subjected to devastating hostile small-arms, automatic weapons and hand grenade fire during an attack against a bitterly defended enemy hill position, Corpsman St. Amand quickly leaped forward, seized the deadly missile and hurled it back at the enemy. Although sustaining serious wounds in the arm and leg when the grenade exploded a few feet from his hand, he refused to be evacuated in order to assist in carrying other wounded Marines to safety and to direct the rendering of first aid, accepting treatment for his own wounds only after all other casualties had been cared for. By his outstanding courage, quick initiative and gallant devotion to duty, Hospital Corpsman Third Class St. Amand served to inspire all who observed him and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
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The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Hospitalman Dorin S. Stafford (NSN: 3935209), United States Naval Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with Company B, First Battalion, First Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 27 October 1950. Hospitalman Stafford was serving as a Corpsman in a rifle platoon on an independent outpost mission when the platoon was subjected to heavy enemy small arms, machine gun fire, and suffered numerous casualties. Without regard for his own personal safety, he exposed himself to the enemy fire to administer aid and evacuate the wounded Marines. One group of enemy succeeded in overrunning the forward elements of the platoon's rear. The platoon was ordered to withdraw to more favorable positions when Hospitalman Stafford voluntarily rushed into the enemy hordes to aid a wounded Marine who was calling for help. His outstanding display of devotion to duty and aggressive actions were an inspiration for all members of his platoon and undoubtedly saved the lives of many wounded Marines. As a result of this action, he is missing in action. Hospitalman Stafford's heroic actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Portland, Oregon
STEWART, WILLIAM S.
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The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Commander William Sidney Stewart (NSN: 0-78823), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. HENDERSON (DD-785), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea from 13 to 15 September 1950. An officer of outstanding professional ability and resourcefulness, Commander Stewart skillfully navigated his ship through a hazardous enemy mine field and, entering the strongly fortified harbor of Inchon, conducted an effective close-in bombardment against hostile shore installations and gun emplacements. Defying the deadly and ever increasing fire from hidden enemy batteries scattered along the coastline, he boldly continued to direct furious counterfire on the hostile fortifications until the defenses were sufficiently neutralized to permit the successful amphibious landings of friendly forces at Inchon. By his marked courage, expert seamanship and loyal devotion to the fulfillment of vital operations, Commander Stewart upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
SULLIVAN, EDWARD M.
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The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Hospitalman Edward M. Sullivan (NSN: 3613568), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with a Marine Infantry Company of the FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 27 September 1950. During the attack by his company, Hospitalman Sullivan serving as a Company Corpsman, with complete disregard for his own personal safety, advanced under the intense enemy small arms, machine gun and mortar fire to reach two wounded Marines. While advancing forward he was knocked unconscious by concussion of an enemy mortar shell explosion. Regaining consciousness soon he continued forward and moved the two wounded back into a covered position and proceeded to administer first aid. By his courageous actions medical attention was given the wounded men much earlier than would otherwise have been possible. Hospitalman Sullivan's heroic actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
SUSZKO, AUGUST
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The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Hospital Corpsman Third Class August Suszko (NSN: 2784859), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with a Marine Infantry Company of the FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 26 July 1953. Serving as a Corpsman, Hospital Corpsman Third Class Suszko displayed outstanding courage, initiative and devotion to duty. While serving with a Company operating far forward of the main line of resistance, he was critically wounded when the company was subjected to intense enemy mortar and artillery fire and as a result of his wounds was unable to walk. Expressing complete disregard for his own personal safety, he courageously crawled to a seriously wounded Marine officer and with a remarkable display of courage administered first aid to the stricken man. Despite the intense enemy mortar and artillery barrage, he dauntlessly continued to give first aid treatment and directed the safe evacuation of several comrades. He gallantly remained at his post in order to assure the evacuation of all the wounded and only then did he let himself be removed from the extremely dangerous area. Hospital Corpsman Third Class Suszko's gallant and courageous actions combined with his selfless devotion to duty served as an inspiration to all who observed him and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
SUSZKO, AUGUST
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The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Hospital Corpsman Third Class August Suszko (NSN: 2784859), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with a Marine Infantry Company of the FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 26 July 1953. Serving as a Corpsman, Hospital Corpsman Third Class Suszko displayed outstanding courage, initiative and devotion to duty. While serving with a Company operating far forward of the main line of resistance, he was critically wounded when the company was subjected to intense enemy mortar and artillery fire and as a result of his wounds was unable to walk. Expressing complete disregard for his own personal safety, he courageously crawled to a seriously wounded Marine officer and with a remarkable display of courage administered first aid to the stricken man. Despite the intense enemy mortar and artillery barrage, he dauntlessly continued to give first aid treatment and directed the safe evacuation of several comrades. He gallantly remained at his post in order to assure the evacuation of all the wounded and only then did he let himself be removed from the extremely dangerous area. Hospital Corpsman Third Class Suszko's gallant and courageous actions combined with his selfless devotion to duty served as an inspiration to all who observed him and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
SWEERE, RICHARD T.
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The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Hospitalman Richard T. Sweere (NSN: 3182394), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with a Marine Infantry Company of the FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 10 February 1951. Hospitalman Sweere, serving as a Corpsman in an infantry platoon, displayed outstanding skill, courage and confidence in the performance of his duties. While advancing along a narrow trail on an independent mission, his platoon was attacked by numerically superior enemy forces, and he, though subjected to direct enemy small arms, mortar and machine gun fire, continually moved through the platoon administering first aid to the wounded Marines. Although painfully wounded in the initial attack, he refused to be evacuated and continued to fearlessly expose himself to the heavy enemy fire in order to treat the increasing number of casualties. After the enemy attack had been repulsed, he remained at his post, still refusing evacuation and organized and directed stretcher parties to carry the wounded to the nearest aid station. His aggressive actions, devotion to duty and complete disregard for his own personal safety set an example for all who served with him and were directly instrumental in saving the lives of numerous wounded Marines. Hospitalman Sweere's heroic actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
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The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Lieutenant, Junior Grade David H. Swenson, Jr. (NSN: 0-498457), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving in U.S.S. LYMAN K. SWENSON (DD-729), in the Korean area on 13 September 1950. Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Swenson, while assigned the duties of Gunnery Liaison Officer, was charged with ascertaining from available information on hand the correct and specific targets on which his ship should fire during its bombardment of Inchon, Korea, on 13 September 1950, and to keep the ship's gunner control officer informed accordingly. While carrying out his assigned duties of observing the effect of his ship's gunfire on the enemy shore batteries and applying that information to the ship's gunfire charts in order that the guns could receive accurate revised target data, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Swenson was struck by enemy counter-battery fire and instantly killed. By his courageous action and devotion to duty in refusing to leave his unprotected post in the face of heavy enemy fire, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Swenson was responsible for obtaining and furnishing such valuable information to the gunnery control officer that he definitely assisted his ship to escape damage from enemy gunfire, thereby providing a material contribution to the war effort of the Korean Campaign. His conduct served as an inspiration to the members of the ship's company and was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Taylor, Texas
*SYPNIEWSKI, STANLEY L. (KIA)
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The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Hospitalman Stanley Leonard Sypniewski (NSN: 3034019), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as a Corpsman attached to Company G, 3d Battalion, 7th Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 13 August 1952. With his company defending a strategic sector of "Bunker Hill" in the face of a heavy enemy bombardment, Hospitalman Sypniewski bravely exposed himself to hostile mortar and artillery fire to treat the wounded and to ensure their prompt evacuation. Refusing to seek cover, he constantly moved across the fire-swept terrain to administer aid to the casualties in other areas. Mortally wounded by enemy shell fragments while attempting to reach a stricken Marine, Hospitalman Sypniewski, by his outstanding courage, daring initiative and selfless efforts in behalf of his comrades, served to inspire all who observed him and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Home Town: Chicago, Illinois
*THOMAS, GORDON W. (KIA)
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The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Hospitalman Gordon William Thomas (NSN: 3039545), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as a Corpsman attached to Company F, 2d Battalion, 5th Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 8 August 1952. Although painfully wounded when the forward elements of the patrol were subjected to an intense barrage of enemy mortar fire, Hospitalman Thomas unhesitatingly rushed to the aid of his more seriously wounded comrades. Mortally wounded himself while moving forward under a hail of fire and in an attempt to reach the stricken men, Hospitalman Thomas, by his outstanding courage, daring initiative and zealous devotion to duty upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
Home Town: Batavia, Illinois
THOMPSON, GLENN O.
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The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star (Army Award) to Hospitalman Glenn O. Thompson (NSN: 5713772), United States Navy, for gallantry in action while serving as a Corpsman attached to the FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces near Tong-myon, Korea, on 19 June 1951. On that date, Company G was attacking a numerically superior enemy force, well entrenched on Hill 872. During the attack, an intense barrage of enemy mortar and automatic weapons fire forced the company to seek cover, inflicting numerous casualties. Hospitalman Thompson, serving as Medical Corpsman with the company, moved swiftly through exposed, fire-swept terrain to treat and evacuate wounded personnel. While moving to assist a severely wounded comrade, Hospitalman Thompson was painfully wounded, but refused to be evacuated and continued to minister to the wounded. When loss of blood ultimately forced his evacuation, Hospitalman Thompson assisted other casualties to the aid station, where he was treated for his wounds. The gallantry, courage and outstanding devotion to duty displayed by Hospitalman Thompson on this occasion reflect great credit upon himself and the military service.
THORIN, DUANE W.
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The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Chief Aviation Structural Mechanic Duane Wilbur Thorin (NSN: 3165995), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Pilot of a Helicopter in Helicopter Squadron ONE, Unit THIRTEEN, attached to U.S.S. ROCHESTER (CA-124) during an attempted rescue of a downed pilot in enemy territory near Kojo, Korea, on 8 February 1952. When information was received that an injured and critically ill pilot was down behind enemy lines, Chief Aviation Structural Mechanic Thorin unhesitatingly volunteered to attempt the rescue. Piloting his helicopter over known enemy anti-aircraft positions, small arms fire, and mountainous terrain with turbulent winds, he reached the pre-arranged pick-up location, and after landing the helicopter, it overturned, due to turbulent wind. It is assumed that he was captured by enemy patrols that were searching for the downed pilot. The outstanding courage, initiative, and gallantry he displayed in attempting to save the life of another at such great risk to himself, contributed immensely toward maintaining the high morale of airmen participating in action against the enemy, and reflects the highest credit upon Chief Aviation Structural Mechanic Thorin and the United States Naval Service.
TRENT, WILLIAM S.
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The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Hospital Corpsman First Class William S. Trent (NSN: 6372926), United States Naval Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with a Marine Artillery Battalion of the FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 4 December 1950. Hospital Corpsman First Class Trent, serving as a Corpsman, was with his battalion in convoy, during the displacement from Yudam-ni to Hagaru-ri. On two occasions his convoy was attacked by numerically superior enemy forces, employing small arms, machine gun, mortar and grenade fire. Heedless of his own personal safety he fearlessly exposed himself to enemy fire and in company with another Corpsman moved among the casualties to administer first aid and assistance. Upon reaching the more seriously wounded, he assisted in carrying them to covered positions and after administering aid, making them as comfortable as could be under such adverse conditions. Working his way back and forth over approximately 200 yards of enemy fire-swept area on three different occasions, he supplied first aid and assistance to almost all of the casualties. His actions were an inspiration to all members of his battalion and undoubtedly saved many wounded Marines from receiving further wounds. Hospital Corpsman First Class Trent's heroic actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
VINSON, RICHARD P.
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The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Engineman Fireman Richard Priestly Vinson (NSN: 2765671), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy during the amphibious assault landings at Inchon, Korea, on 15 September 1950. While a member of a landing craft during assault operations on enemy beaches, Enginemen Fireman Vinson returned with the coxswain of the boat to the beach, assisted in rescuing from a group undergoing sniper fire, a wounded Marine and returned him to safety. His daring initiative and courage were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
VINTILA, JOHN N.
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The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Hospitalman Third Class John N. Vintila (NSN: 9544361), United States Naval Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving as a Medical Corpsman attached to a Marine Infantry Company of the FIRST Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea, on 5 May 1952. When the patrol he was accompanying was subjected to a devastating hail of automatic-weapons and mortar fire, Hospitalman Third Class Vintila observed nine seriously wounded Marines lying on the trail and immediately ran from the rear of the column in the face of the shattering barrage to assist the stricken men. Constantly under fire, he succeeded in rendering first aid to each of the nine casualties and in carrying the less seriously wounded to safety. Although narrowly escaping direct hits from the bursting shells many times, he calmly persisted in his efforts until all the wounded had been evacuated. By his courageous initiative, resolute determination, and unyielding devotion to duty in the face of heavy odds, Hospitalman Third Class Vintila was directly instrumental in saving the lives of several wounded Marines and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
VOGT, CHANCEY H.
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The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Seaman Chancey H. Vogt (NSN: 3879631), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy during the amphibious assault landings at Inchon, Korea, on 15 September 1950. Despite a serious wound received from enemy sniper fire, Seaman Vogt carried out his assigned mission of landing troops ashore under heavy enemy fire and by his courage and perseverance contributed materially to the success of the landing operation. His daring initiative and courage were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
WELCH, DAVID F.
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The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant Commander David Fife Welch (NSN: 0-97926), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving as Commanding Officer of Underwater Demolition Team ONE, a part of the raiding forces in a Special Operations Group of Amphibious Group ONE, Pacific Fleet which conducted a series of successful night demolition raids and beach reconnaissance missions in the coastal waters of enemy-held Korea during the period 12 through 25 August 1950. Lieutenant Commander Welch expertly planned and skillfully organized and trained his Underwater Demolition Team for each of these demolition and beach reconnaissance missions. Under the Landing Force Commander he personally led and directed the night hydrographic survey of three beaches. He conducted his command with skill and courage. Under his determined leadership the surveys were successfully completed despite the fact that on the last night heavy enemy opposition was encountered and the reconnaissance party was forced to withdraw under fire. His leadership, skill, and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
WEYMER, WILLIAM G.
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The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Hospitalman William G. Weymer (NSN: 7196211), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving as a Medical Corpsman attached to a Marine Infantry Company, FIRST Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea, on 5 and 6 September 1952. Accompanying a relief detail to an outpost which had been heavily hit the previous night and was still under enemy artillery and mortar fire, Hospitalman Weymer continually exposed himself to the hostile fire to administer first aid to the wounded and contributed materially to the saving of many lives. Carrying out two trips to the forward slope in the face of heavy enemy artillery and mortar fire, he succeeded in rescuing seriously wounded Marines and, although knocked down when several hostile shells landed near him, continued his duties until relieved. By his courageous initiative, outstanding skill and steadfast devotion to duty, Hospitalman Weymer served to inspire all who observed him and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Middletown, New York
WICKSON, LAWRENCE N.
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The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Hospitalman Lawrence Norman Wickson (NSN: 7198627), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with a Marine Infantry Company of the FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 6 July 1952. Hospitalman Wickson, serving as a Corpsman, displayed outstanding gallantry, professional skill and devotion to duty. When the company was engaged in an assault on a strongly fortified enemy hill position the leading platoon was pinned down. Realizing that three Marines were lying wounded within fifteen yards of the enemy machine gun position, without regard for his personal safety he unhesitatingly ran into the lines of fire of the enemy position, picked up one man and carried him back to the perimeter of defense. Again he dauntlessly ran forward through a hail of enemy small arms and grenade fire and carried back a second Marine. Although physically exhausted he organized a stretcher party and was responsible for the rescue of the other man. By his courageous actions he personally saved the lives of the three Marines. Hospitalman Wickson's gallantry, concern for his comrades and unswerving devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: New York, New York
WILSHIRE, RAYMOND K.
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The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Hospitalman Third Class Raymond K. Wilshire (NSN: 2260723), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Corpsman attached to a Marine Infantry Battalion of the FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 22 and 23 September 1950. During a defensive mission the forward companies were receiving intense enemy machine gun, mortar and tank fire. Hospital Corpsman Third Class Wilshire displayed outstanding courage and complete disregard for his own personal safety by moving from wounded to wounded through the intense enemy fire to administer aid and supervise their evacuation. Whenever a man was wounded, he unhesitatingly and fearlessly went to his side and administered aid. Though Hospital Corpsman Third Class Wilshire was assigned as Corpsman for a platoon, he attended the wounded of adjacent platoons. In the course of this action, he attended twenty wounded which resulted in aid being administered more quickly than would otherwise have been possible. Hospital Corpsman Third Class Wilshire's devotion to duty and heroic actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
WILSON, JAMES C.
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The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star (Army Award) to Lieutenant Commander James C. Wilson (NSN: 0-199529), United States Navy, for gallantry in action while serving as Commander of a Task Element of LST's during the assault landing on the enemy beaches of Inchon, Korea, on 15 September 1950. Lieutenant Commander Wilson led the task element which he was commanding to the beach during the assault and when the task element was within two hundred yards of the beach the enemy placed heavy machine gun and mortar fire upon the ships under his command. Commander Wilson noticed that the heavy enemy fire had also retarded the advance of the first wave of troops upon the beach. He unswervingly continued the advance of his ships toward the beach acting as a decoy to divert fire from the troops ashore and personally directed effective counter-battery fire from the LST batteries. This determined effort, under trying conditions and heavy enemy fire that was inflicting casualties on the members of his command, enabled the troops to continue their advance. Lieutenant Commander Wilson also landed, from his ships, ammunition, gasoline, supplies, and equipment that were vitally needed ashore. His conspicuous gallantry in action were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Military Service.
WOLFE, JERRY D.
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The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Ensign Jerry D. Wolfe (NSN: 0-507907), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity a Pilot of an attack bomber in Attack Squadron ONE HUNDRED FIFTEEN (VA-115), attached to U.S.S. PHILIPPINE SEA (CV-47), during action against enemy forces in the hostile area of central North Korea, on 7 February 1952. During a mission directed against enemy rail installations North of Yangdok, Ensign Wolfe, having expended all bombs on previous runs, bravely repeated his attack by strafing to draw and divert an intense concentration of anti-aircraft fire from his flight leader. This coordinated action assisted in the destruction of an important and heavily defended railroad bridge and resulted in his own death by enemy gun fire. By his outstanding bravery Ensign Wolfe contributed materially to the safety of the remainder of the flight and to the success of the attack. His relentless fighting spirit and courageous devotion to duty, maintained with complete disregard for his own personal safety, were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Home Town: Lima, Ohio
WOOD, JOHN S.
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The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Hospitalman John S. Wood (NSN: 3475991), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with a Marine Tank Platoon in support of a Marine Infantry Battalion of the FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces at Hagaru-ri, Korea, on 1 December 1950. When positions on a ridge of the southern perimeter, held by a United States Army Engineer Company, had been overrun by the enemy, Hospitalman Wood proceeded forward with Marine elements to recapture a portion of the ridge and volunteered to assist in the care and evacuation of the wounded of the United States Army Engineer Company, who had occupied this position. While exposed to direct enemy observation and small arms fire, he, with a high degree of courage and skill, moved from man to man to administer first aid. During this period he administered first aid to at least thirty casualties. On several occasions he covered the bodies of the casualties at the risk of his own life to protect them from small arms fire and flying grenade fragments, and on one occasion while protecting a casualty was wounded by grenade fragments in the face. Although painfully wounded about the head and face, and suffering from severely frostbitten feet, he courageously refused to be evacuated and remained with the unit until it was withdrawn. Hospitalman Wood's heroic actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
WOODS, WILLIAM C.
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The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Hospitalman William C. Woods (NSN: 2781398), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with a Marine Infantry Company of the FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 2 December 1952. Serving as a Corpsman assigned the mission of assisting and evacuating wounded Marines, Hospitalman Woods displayed outstanding courage, initiative and devotion to duty. When one of his comrades was seriously wounded and lying in an exposed position, he unhesitatingly advanced up the steep slope in the face of intense enemy mortar, machine gun and small arms fire to treat his wounds and evacuate him to friendly lines. During the evacuation, he noticed another Marine casualty lying in hostile territory. Expressing complete disregard for his personal safety, he immediately went to the man's rescue and when he found it was impossible to move him alone, he summoned another Marines. As they dragged the casualty across a rice paddy, a distance of approximately two hundred and fifty yards under constant and devastating enemy mortar and machine gun fire, Hospitalman Woods lost one of his thermo boots. Although suffering frostbite as a result of the extreme cold, he continued with his mission until he was evacuated. Hospitalman Woods' gallant and courageous actions served as an inspiration to all who observed him and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
YACKLEY, EDWARD C.
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The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Hospitalman Corpsman Second Class Edward C. Yackley (NSN: 3218761), United States Naval Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with a Marine Artillery Battery of the FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 4 December 1950. Hospitalman Corpsman Second Class Yackley, serving as a Corpsman, was with his battalion in convoy during the displacement from Yudam-ni to Hagaru-ri. On two occasions his convoy was attacked by numerically superior enemy forces, employing small arms, machine gun, mortar and grenade fire. Heedless of his own personal safety he fearlessly exposed himself to enemy fire, and in company with another Corpsman moved among the casualties to administer first aid and assist in the evacuation to covered positions. Though he was wounded during the action, he courageously refused medical attention for himself and continued seeking out the casualties. As he found the more seriously wounded, he assisted in carrying them to covered positions and administering aid. Working his way back and forth over approximately 200 yards of enemy fire-swept area on three different occasions, he gave first aid and assistance to almost all of the casualties suffered during the attacks. His actions were an inspiration to all members of his battalion and undoubtedly saved many wounded Marines from receiving further wounds. Hospitalman Corpsman Second Class Yackley's heroic actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
YOUNG, RICHARD O.
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The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant Commander [then Lieutenant] Richard O. Young (NSN: 0-161967), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. PLEDGE (AM-277), while engaged in mine sweeping operations in densely mined waters off Wonsan, Korea and in areas subjected to heavy gunfire from enemy shore batteries during the period 10 to 12 October 1950. His inspiring leadership and professional ability contributed directly to the efficient operation of his ship and to the successful clearance of mine free channels and anchorage areas off Wonsan. His loyalty and steadfast devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.