The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Sergeant First Class Billy J. Foster (ASN: RA-18335488), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company C, 38th Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 26 July 1951 in the vicinity of Taeusan, Korea. On this date Company C was attacking strategic enemy positions under intense hostile fire. During the ensuing action a numerically superior enemy force launched a counterattack and forced friendly troops to withdraw to better defensive positions. Realizing the seriousness of the situation and with complete disregard for his personal safety, Sergeant Foster voluntarily remained behind and fought a gallant rear guard action while his comrades withdrew. He then assisted in the evacuation of the wounded men and continued in this manner, under constant enemy observation and fire, until all of them were safely evacuated. His dauntless courage and devotion to duty were an inspiration to the men of his unit and were responsible for saving the lives of many of his comrades. The gallantry in action displayed by Sergeant Foster on this occasion reflects great credit upon himself and the military service.