The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Sergeant Henry L. Cooper (ASN: US-55152127), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company I, 3d Battalion, 7th Infantry Regiment, 3d Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in Korea. On 6 July 1952, the 1st Platoon of Company I was occupying defensive positions on an outpost known as “Nori” approximately 1200 yards forward of the main line of resistance near Samgwan-Ni, Korea, when it was subjected to an intense enemy artillery and mortar bombardment. During the barrage the foe cut through the outer barbed wire defenses surrounding the outpost. Immediately after the barrage lifted, the frenzied foe attacked through these openings in the wire, laying down a tremendous hail of small arms and grenade fire, and succeeded in gaining passion of commanding terrain. Realizing the impending danger to the friendly troops if the enemy retained these positions, Sergeant Cooper, a squad leader, fearlessly led his men in a fixed bayonet charge against the foe but because of the intense resistance, the assault was repulsed. Undaunted, he reorganized his squad and again led them against the hostile position. During the assault Sergeant Cooper was seriously wounded by the devastating enemy fire but he courageously continued forward, encouraging his men to maintain the drive until the hostile troops were driven from commanding positions. His exemplary leadership and unwavering determination were directly responsible for two enemy soldiers killed, one wounded, and for the friendly force’s successful defense of the outpost. Sergeant Cooper’s outstanding gallantry reflects the highest credit upon himself and the military service.