The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Sergeant Rudolph R. Gustafson (MCSN: 1020897), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as a Squad Leader of Company G, Third Battalion, First Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on the night of 10 – 11 September 1952. While the company was effecting a relief of the main line of resistance, the entire area was subjected to devastating enemy mortar, artillery and small arms fire, and four Marines of the company being relieved fell seriously wounded. Dauntlessly exposing himself to the intense hostile barrages, Sergeant Gustafson rushed to the aid of his fallen comrades. Although painfully wounded by the enemy fire during the course of this hazardous undertaking, he carried one of the Marines to safety and returned with stretcher bearers to rescue the other casualties, refusing treatment and evacuation for himself until all the other men were safe and their wounds had been treated. By his courageous leadership, determination and gallant devotion to duty, Sergeant Gustafson served to inspire all who observed him and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.