The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class Theodore Eastman (MCSN: 1241810), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with Company B, First Battalion, Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Rein), in Korea, on 9 April 1953. Serving as a machine gun squad leader, Private First Class Eastman displayed outstanding courage, initiative and devotion to duty. He was a member of a unit defending a vital outpost far forward of the main line of resistance when it was subjected to a savage enemy assault. Expressing complete disregard for his personal safety, he courageously assisted his section leader in delivering a deadly hail of fire on the hostile troops. Although suffering intense pain as a result of wounds, he gallantly remained at his position despite the devastating enemy mortar, artillery and small arms fire falling around him. When the enemy penetrated the outpost perimeter and began to move in on the position, he dauntlessly removed the weapon from its tripod and fired from the hip, delivering such a large volume of murderous fire that the enemy was driven from his position. Private First Class Eastman’s gallant and courageous actions combined with his indomitable spirit served as an inspiration to all who observed him and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.