The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain (Infantry) Don R. Hickman (ASN: 0-35996), United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as a member of Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 1st Battalion, 27th Infantry Regiment, 25th Infantry Division in Korea. On 25 July 1950 near Kwanggan, Korea, during the initial engagement of the Battalion while under constant enemy fire, Captain Hickman functioned as Battalion S-3. When repeated attacks by overwhelming enemy forces threatened to overrun the Battalion Command Post, Captain Hickman, although exposed to enemy artillery and small arms fire directed fire against the enemy until he succeeded in stopping the enemy attack. His outstanding bravery and heroism were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service.

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 Major (Infantry), [then Captain] Don R. Hickman (ASN: 0-35996), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 1st Battalion, 27th Infantry Regiment, 25th Infantry Division in Korea. On 2 August 1950, near Chuson-ni, Korea, elements of the battalion were fired on from three sides after the column had penetrated 22 miles into hostile territory. Despite the concerted anti-tank, machine gun and small arms fire, Major Hickman went forward, led back a platoon and assisted it in clearing out the enemy. Then, since there were no wire or radio communications, he volunteered to run an enemy road block, where several of them had become casualties. He successfully negotiated the hazardous route and reached regimental headquarters to report on the situation. Major Hickman’s valorous leadership and notable military ability are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.