The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star to First Lieutenant (Infantry) Charles E. Gilliland (ASN: 0-1014653), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company H, 38th Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy on 7 January 1951 in the vicinity of Wonju, Korea. Early in the morning of that day his 81-mm. mortar platoon was attacked by a large group of enemy who had infiltrated through front-line rifle companies. Without regard for his personal safety, Lieutenant Gilliland quickly dispose his men and took up the fight against the enemy. By moving from man to man, although exposed to the hostile fire, he was able to control his platoon and repel the attack. When a nearby straw stack was fired by the enemy, he led his men to an alternate position where they could cover their mortars and inflict casualties on the enemy. When the fire had decreased, he moved his platoon back to their original positions where his men secured their mortars and equipment. Upon orders from his company commander, he then moved his platoon to another area where it continued its fire support mission for the battalion. Lieutenant Gilliland’s courage and superior leadership so inspired his men that they fought tenaciously and refused to move except on his direct order. His gallantry and devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon himself are in keeping with the fine traditions of the military service.


