The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class J. D. Pruitt (ASN: US-53138657), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company C, 1st Battalion, 65th Infantry Regiment, 3d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy in Korea. On the night of 16 July 1953, in the vicinity of Kumhwa, Korea, Private Pruitt was a member of a combat patrol advancing to Hill “326”, a contested area near enemy lines. Reaching the crest of the hill, he effectively positioned himself on the defense perimeter and opened fire on an approaching enemy force. In the ensuing firefight and hand-to-hand combat, an enemy soldier charged toward Private Pruitt and attempted to take him prisoner. Private Pruitt aggressively engaged the man and threw him down the steep slope. Immediately, another of the enemy attacked Private Pruitt and was also knocked down the hillside. Private Pruitt then threw several grenades into the rapidly retreating force, mortally wounding a number of the foe. His quick decisions and courageous actions contributed materially to the success of the mission with a minimum of casualties. Private Pruitt’s outstanding gallantry and devotion to duty reflects great credit upon himself and the military service.