The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class Melvin G. Abbott (ASN: US-55081190), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company A, 23d Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 13 October 1951 in the vicinity of Satae-ri, Korea. On this date Private Abbott’s unit had the mission of attacking and securing a heavily fortified enemy-held hill. In the ensuing fire fight he was wounded by enemy fire and upon refusal to be evacuated was left behind to guard the unit’s equipment. After being informed that the friendly elements were in dire need of ammunition, Private Abbott unhesitatingly left his site of comparative safety to deliver it. Despite the pain from his wound he advanced over the fire-swept area to the forward positions and distributed the vital ammunition. In the course of this act he was wounded a second time and was forced to be evacuated. His heroic actions were an inspiration to all the members of his unit and contributed materially to the success of the attack. The gallantry in action and devotion to duty displayed by Private Abbott on this occasion reflects great credit upon himself and the military service.