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) Austin D. Dent (ASN: 0-1335758), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company D, 38th Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 15 October 1951 in the vicinity of Kongnae, Korea. On this date friendly units were attacking strategic enemy positions. Due to the continuous firing and the heavy hostile resistance, Lieutenant Dent’s platoon was running critically low on ammunition which was vital to the success of the mission. Realizing the seriousness of the situation, Lieutenant Dent, completely disregarding his own safety, advanced under enemy observation and automatic weapons fire and succeeded in capturing large quantities of enemy weapons and ammunition. He immediately set up the weapons and continued to provide accurate supporting fire for the friendly assaulting units, inflicting numerous casualties upon the enemy. His dauntless courage and cool behavior before the enemy contributed immeasurably to the success of the mission. The gallantry in action displayed by Lieutenant Dent on this occasion reflects great credit upon himself and the military service.