The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Corporal David W. Cooper (ASN: RA-11160027), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company L, 38th Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy on 25 May 1951, in the vicinity of Kosoktul, Korea. When his company was ambushed by an enemy force on that date, Corporal Cooper, completely disregarding the intense enemy fire sweeping the area, moved about the company perimeter giving first aid to his wounded comrades. He further volunteered to take a message through the enemy encirclement to secure help. Running through the intense enemy fire, he made his way to the battalion command post, secured aid for his company, and returned through the intense enemy fire to assist in the evacuation of all wounded. The gallantry in action demonstrated by Corporal Cooper reflects great credit upon himself and upholds the highest traditions of the Military Service of the United States.