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 Donald R. Fitch (ASN: RA-12268144), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company F, 23d Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy on 7 January 1951 in the vicinity of Wonju, Korea. During the preceding night, approximately 250 enemy had broken through the defensive perimeter to the shelter of the hills surrounding Wonju. At daybreak, the hostile force was sighted by other units in the area and was caught in a devastating cross-fire, with only one route of escape open to them. Observing the enemy attempting to escape Corporal Fitch, armed with an automatic rifle, moved into position facing the enemy and, with a withering stream of automatic fire, sealed off their route of retreat. As a result of his courageous action and bold initiative, most of the enemy were killed or wounded and the survivors were captured. The gallantry displayed by Corporal Fitch reflects the highest great upon himself is in keeping with the fine traditions of the military service.