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), [then Second Lieutenant] Kenneth G. Finn, United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company G, 23d Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy on 13 March 1951, near Yudong-ni, Korea. On that date he was a platoon leader of an infantry unit which had the mission of attacking and securing enemy positions near Yudong-ni. As the platoon reached a position approximately 100 feet from its objective, it was subjected to intense enemy machine gun, burp gun, and hand grenade fire. Realizing the fact that if the platoon remained in its present position it was certain to be annihilated, Lieutenant Finn, with complete disregard for his personal safety, moved from man to man, encouraging and instructing each. He then led his platoon in a bayonet and hand grenade charge against the enemy, forcing that enemy to withdraw with heavy casualties. During this charge, he was wounded, but continued to expose himself to the enemy fire in order to continue the attack. His quick thinking and outstanding leadership contributed materially to the fact that the unit was able to secure and hold its objective with a minimum of casualties, The gallant conduct of Lieutenant Finn on this occasion reflects great credit upon himself and upholds the highest traditions of the Military Service of the United States.