The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class Edward P. Drake (ASN: RA-17258617), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company F, 2d Battalion, 15th Infantry Regiment, 3d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy in Korea. On the night of 2 June and during the early morning hours of 3 June 1953, in the vicinity of Pung-Myon, Korea, a friendly patrol of the 15th Infantry Regiment had the mission of establishing a listening post several hundred yards beyond the friendly outpost. When the patrol reached the desired position, they suddenly observed a numerically superior enemy force advancing toward the friendly lines. As the men dispersed and prepared to meet the enemy, Private Drake unhesitatingly exposed himself to provide cover fire for the automatic rifleman who was maneuvering into a more tenable position. Throughout the ensuing fire fight, Private Drake fought courageously. Firing his weapon with effective accuracy, he accounted for numerous enemy casualties. During the ensuing battle, he was responsible for driving off a group of hostile troops who were attempting to storm the friendly position. When the friendly forces prepared to return to the outpost, he remained at his post and provided cover fire insuring their safe retrograde movement. This heroic action resulted in his being separated from the patrol. He, therefore, remained in his position throughout the night and returned to the friendly lines at daybreak. Private Drake’s outstanding gallantry and untiring devotion to duty reflects great credit upon himself and the military service.