The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Second Lieutenant Nicholas M. Trapnell, Jr. (MCSN: 0-49663), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as a Rifle Platoon Commander of Company A, First Battalion, Fifth Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 7 December 1950. When an estimated enemy battalion attacked and attempted to overrun his position during hours of darkness, Second Lieutenant Trapnell fearlessly moved along the line in the sub-zero weather throughout the lengthy and bitter engagement, shouting words of encouragement to his men and directing their fires. With a number of the enemy gaining positions within yards of his line, he skillfully directed his men in a bayonet charge and succeeded in destroying the hostile troops. By his aggressive leadership and courageous initiative, Second Lieutenant Trapnell inspired his men to resist all attempts to breach the perimeter. When the attackers were finally routed, over 250 enemy dead were counted in front of his line. His heroic actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.