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 Joe Fanning (ASN: RA-38023675), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company M, 23d Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy on 14 September 1950 in the vicinity of Yongsan, Korea. On the night of that date he was a member of a machine gun section attached to a rifle company in defensive positions. The company was subjected to a fierce attack by a numerically superior enemy force. With complete disregard for the heavy enemy mortar and automatic weapons fire raking the area, he held his position and poured accurate and devastating bursts of fire into the advancing enemy. When his ammunition was exhausted he held his ground against overwhelming odds by firing his pistol and hurling hand grenades. On the following morning, fifteen dead enemy soldiers were found to the immediate front of his position. His heroic determination to hold fast against overwhelming odds was greatly instrumental to the success of the company in repelling four enemy assaults. The gallantry displayed on this occasion reflects great credit upon himself and is in keeping with the high traditions of the military service. occasion by Corporal Fanning reflects the highest great upon himself is in keeping with the fine traditions of the military service.