The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant (Infantry) Maurice L. Fenderson (ASN: 0-2203919), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company B, 23d Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy on 5 February 1951, near Wonju, Korea. On that date he was a platoon leader of a platoon in an infantry unit which had been given the mission of leading an attack on enemy-held Hill 424, northwest of Wonju. When the attack had reached a point near the objective, the lead platoon, under the command of Lieutenant Fenderson, was suddenly subjected to heavy enemy machine gun and small arms fire which threatened the success of the mission. At this point he hesitantly left his position of comparative safety, and exposed himself to the intense enemy fire to select positions and point out fields of fire for the members of his platoon. The attack lasted will into the night, and in spite of the darkness and the murderous fire of the enemy he continued to lead his platoon in the assault, gaining a position only 25 yards from the final objective, and allowing the other elements of the company to advance and take the objective with a minimum of casualties. His gallant and courageous actions were a source of inspiration to all. The gallantry and unselfish heroism displayed by Lieutenant Fenderson on this occasion reflects great credit upon himself and upon the military service.