The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Second Lieutenant Charles Henry Mattox (MCSN: 0-49977), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving with Company I, Third Battalion, First Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 22 September 1950. Assigned the mission of personally contacting the unit on the right flank when his Battalion was ordered to attack, Second Lieutenant Mattox repeatedly exposed himself to heavy hostile small arms and machine gun fire to carry out his assignment. After completing his mission and learning that there were also no communications with the left flank unit, he obtained a supply of ammunition and proceeded to the unit on the left. As he moved along the front lines under intense enemy fire, he disclosed hostile positions to his own troops and boldly directed the fire of a friendly tank upon an enemy stronghold which was impeding the advance of an ambulance. By his courageous actions, he materially aided in destroying the hostile position and assisted the assault units in reaching their objectives. His courage, daring initiative and steadfast devotion to duty throughout reflect great credit upon Second Lieutenant Mattox and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.