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 Leon H. Foster (ASN: RA-11129217), 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 2 December 1950 in the vicinity of Kunu-ri, Korea. On that date the platoon commanded by Sergeant Foster was defending high ground against a fierce enemy assault. Because of friendly artillery fire, reinforcements sent to his aid were unable to reach his position. Realizing that the commanding ground he occupied must be held at any cost he set about to defend his position with the troops available to him. With complete indifference for his personal safety he exposed himself repeatedly to the severe enemy mortar, machine gun and small arms fire in order to place his men in position and to direct their fire against the advancing enemy. Although the enemy penetrated to within grenade throwing distance of his position, he remained in the open, rallying and encouraging his men. His heroic example inspired his men to such an extent that the enemy attack was hurled back with severe casualties. As a result of his courage in standing fast against overwhelmingly superior numbers the entire main line of resistance of his regiment was secured. The gallantry and inspiring leadership displayed by Sergeant Foster reflect great credit upon himself and are in keeping with the fine traditions of the military service.