The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant (Infantry) Eugene L. Curtis (ASN: 0-1686623), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company L, 9th Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy on 3 June 1951, in the vicinity of Inje, Korea. On that day he was leading his platoon in an attack on Hill 451 when the unit was pinned down by intense fire from a well-concealed enemy machine gun which wounded several men. Lieutenant Curtis quickly located the emplacement and, with complete disregard for personal safety, made his way forward until he was within 50 yards of the enemy position. Then he dashed forward through heavy hostile artillery, mortar and automatic weapons fire to a point within 15 yards of the enemy emplacement. From this point he threw a grenade into the position, killing five of the enemy and wounding three others. Lieutenant Curtis’ actions enabled his platoon and the remainder of the company to advance and secure the objective. The devotion to duty, aggressiveness, and gallantry displayed by Lieutenant Curtis reflect great credit upon himself and uphold the highest traditions of the Military Service of the United States.