The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Captain (Infantry) Edward D. Howell (ASN: 0-1297726), United States Army, for gallantry in action as Commanding Officer of Company I, 9th Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy on 9 and 10 February 1951, while his company was attached to the 1st Battalion in the vicinity of Sangsok, Korea. The objectives of the attack were well fortified enemy positions on Hill 442, a key terrain feature. The stubborn and determined enemy fiercely resisted all efforts to dislodge them from their positions, driving the attacking infantrymen to cover with well directed fire. Captain Howell led his company in an attempted enveloping movement from the northwest but the devastating enemy fire repulsed the attack. Captain Howell, displaying complete disregard for his own safety, moved forward on a personal reconnaissance of the enemy positions. Later, under cover of darkness and a sub-zero blizzard, he led another assault on the enemy, reaching within grenade throwing range, but once more the withering enemy fire forced them back. He directed his company in an orderly withdrawal to a position where they could dig in for the night, and still direct fire upon the enemy. At dawn, he aggressively led the company in another attack and under his inspiring leadership the infantrymen fiercely stormed the hostile positions and destroyed the remaining enemy troops. Quickly reorganizing his men, he made a personal check to determine casualties, and redistributed ammunition. He deployed his company so effectively that they were able to repulse two enemy attacks. Later that day Captain Howell was mortally wounded by enemy fire. The sustained courage and gallantry displayed by Captain Howell reflect great credit upon himself and uphold the highest traditions of the Military Service of the United States.