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 [then Sergeant] Bernard H. Getson (ASN: RA-42266854), United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as a member of Company C, 23d Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy on 23 April 1951, in the vicinity of Yanggu, Korea. On that date he was a squad leader of a rifle squad which had the mission of assisting in the defense of Hill 386, an important sector in his battalion’s perimeter. A strong enemy build-up to the unit’s front was observed throughout the day and it appeared that an enemy night attack was certain. Realizing this, he placed his men and instructed them on the method to be used in repulsing the hostile attack. When the enemy launched an attack, Sergeant Getson ordered his squad to hold its fire until further orders. With complete disregard for his personal safety, he advanced to an exposed position, under an intense hail of enemy fire. When the enemy was within twenty feet of his squad, he gave the order to fire, surprising the hostile force, and forcing them to flee in panic, leaving five of their dead behind. His outstanding leadership and tactical knowledge were responsible for repelling the enemy attack. The gallant conduct of Sergeant Getson reflects great credit upon himself and the military service.