The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant Edwin W. Hakala (MCSN: 0-49700), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as a Forward Observer of Battery D, Second Battalion, Eleventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 10 June 1951. Although wounded by enemy mortar fragments when the infantry company to which he was attached was halted momentarily by rigid resistance from a fanatically determined enemy during an assault, First Lieutenant Hakala refused to be evacuated and continued to move in the attack with the forward elements. Displaying exceptional skill, he called artillery fire upon the hostile strongpoints so effectively that the attacking company was able to seize its objective which had been savagely defended by an enemy force estimated at battalion strength. By his outstanding courage, resolute determination and steadfast devotion to duty, First Lieutenant Hakala contributed materially to the success of his company and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.