The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Captain (Infantry) Alden D. Allen (ASN: 0-1316820), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company E, 38th Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy on 14 March 1951 in the vicinity of Kuram-ni, Korea. Company E was ordered to attack and secure the high ground commanding the vital pass leading into Pungnam-ni. As the leading platoons jumped off in the attack to seize the first objective, heavy enemy automatic weapons and small arms fire was brought to bear on them from the secondary objective. The hostile fire dispersed the company to such an extent that it was incapable of attack, while the loss of noncommissioned officers during this action crippled the company’s leadership. Gallantly responding to the occasion Captain Allen, in utter defiance of the hostile fire, rushed from his command post and personally assumed command of the advance. Quickly making his decision to bypass the first objective and to assault the second objective where the bulk of the enemy firepower was concentrated, he led his men up the slope of the hill and successfully drove the enemy into retreat with heavy losses. The gallantry and inspirational leadership displayed by Captain Allen reflect the highest credit upon himself are in keeping with the fine traditions of the military service.

(Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: 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) Alden D. Allen (ASN: 0-1316820), United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in connection with military operations against the enemy. His gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.