The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to First Lieutenant (Infantry) Vernon Roy Ashley (ASN: 0-2002910), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company E, 9th Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, who distinguished himself by gallantry in action on 21 July 1952 in the vicinity of Chorwon, North Korea. On that date, Lieutenant Ashley, leading a squad-sized patrol, was returning to friendly lines when he and his unit were suddenly confronted by an overwhelming number of enemy troops. Although outnumbered and surrounded, his determined and courageous leadership enable the friendly patrol to kill or wound at least twenty enemy soldiers, cutting a path through which three members of the patrol escaped. He then set up a rear guard and attempted a withdrawal to a more strategic position. Before this position could be reached, however, he and two of the men were painfully wounded by the murderous hostile small arms fire. This compelled him to change his tactics and try to force a retreat upon the enemy. The fanatical enemy would not withdraw, and when it appeared evident that they would be overrun, he ordered the remainder of the patrol to withdraw and fight their way back to friendly lines. When last seen, Lieutenant Ashley, who with complete disregard for personal safety had elected to remain with the other wounded men, was fighting courageously and fearlessly, endeavoring to hold back the hostile forces. His courageous and selfless actions enabled the remainder of the patrol to escape further casualties and reach the safety of friendly lines. Lieutenant Ashley’s outstanding gallantry and consummate devotion to duty reflect great credit upon himself and the military service.