The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Second Lieutenant (Infantry), [then Master Sergeant] Pomp Corley (ASN: 0-p2262320), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Heavy Mortar Company, 23d Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy on 31 August 1950 in the vicinity of Changnyong, Korea. On that date Lieutenant Corley, then platoon sergeant of a 4.2 inch mortar platoon, was assigned the mission of rendering supporting fire to a battalion which was surrounded and was under attack by a numerically superior enemy force. Advancing to a forward observation post he exposed himself to intense enemy fire in order to direct the fires of his platoon from this position. When his platoon also became surrounded by enemy forces he inspired his men by his fearless actions to remain in place and continue their devastating fire upon the advancing enemy. Only when his position became untenable did he order a withdrawal. Leading his platoon in a skillful withdrawing action he succeeded in evacuating all his vehicles and weapons and all personnel without sustaining casualties. The gallantry and inspirational leadership displayed by Lieutenant Corley on this occasion reflect great credit upon himself and the Armed Forces of the United States.