The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class Melvin Lee Thompson (MCSN: 1103167), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as a Rifleman of Company I, Third Battalion, First Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 28 November 1950. With his platoon under attack by a hostile force of estimated company strength, Private First Class Thompson unhesitatingly risked his life under direct enemy fire to run to the supply dump and obtain critically needed ammunition for his squad. On two occasions while carrying out his voluntary mission, he assisted in evacuating wounded Marines across fire-swept terrain to the company aid station. When the enemy penetrated an adjacent unit, he boldly moved to the area to check the positions and make certain that they were in friendly hands. By his daring initiative, coolness under fire and grave concern for others at great risk to his own life, Private First Class Thompson served as an inspiration to all who observed him and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.