The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star to Lieutenant Colonel (Armor) Wilson M. Hawkins (ASN: 0-22737), United States Army, for gallantry in action as the Commanding Officer of the 64th Heavy Tank Battalion, 3d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy in Korea. On 7 April 1951 a tank-infantry team, commanded by Colonel Hawkins, encountered stiff enemy resistance while attacking to gain a site on the Imjin River, Korea, from which a crossing could be made. Colonel Hawkins skillfully deployed his battalion in a frontal attack against the enemy and, realizing that the enemy would be dislodged from his position, quickly dispatched a second force through by-passes to encircle and block his retreat. The enemy fought stubbornly but was forced from his entrenchment by the severity of the frontal attack. The elements that had been dispatched to block the anticipated enemy withdrawal then took up the attack, effecting a complete rout, killing approximately one hundred fifty enemy and capturing forty prisoners. Although exposed to intense enemy fire during the entire engagement, Colonel Hawkins displayed a total disregard for his own safety in order to deal with the constantly changing tactical situation, and his skillful leadership ensured the complete success of the mission without suffering a single casualty. Colonel Hawkins’ gallantry, aggressiveness, and inspirational leadership reflect great credit upon himself and exemplify the highest traditions of the military service.