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 First Lieutenant (Infantry) Richard P. Burns (ASN: 0-825972), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company E, 2d Battalion, 15th Infantry Regiment, 3d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy in Korea. On 22 May 1951, in the vicinity of Sinchon, Korea, Lieutenant Burns led his platoon up the precipitous slopes of Hill 440 in a frontal assault on well-defended enemy positions. The enemy had excellent observation and fields of fire and, as the lead elements approached the objective, they were subjected to withering hostile fire. Although subsequently wounded and in severe pain, Lieutenant Burns, calmly encouraging his men to renew their efforts, resumed the ferocity of the attack and drove the enemy from the hill. Lieutenant Burns’ outstanding gallantry and courageous devotion to duty reflects the highest credit upon himself and the military service.