The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class Paul M. Cloud (MCSN: 1073230), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as a Rifleman of Company E, Second Battalion, Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 8 April 1951. When the tank-infantry patrol he was accompanying was suddenly subjected to a devastating enemy mortar barrage, causing numerous casualties, while the unit was moving forward to reconnoiter a valley on the flank of the battalion position, Private First Class Cloud, quickly realizing that there was no Corpsman immediately available, courageously exposed himself to the heavy enemy fire to render first aid to the wounded men. Although suffering from a serious and painful shrapnel wound, he continued to aid his comrades until the arrival of a Corpsman, refusing to accept treatment for his own wound until all others had received attention. By his exceptional fortitude, initiative and unyielding devotion to duty, Private First Class Cloud served to inspire all who observed him and undoubtedly contributed to the saving of many lives, thereby upholding the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.