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 Paul H. Gooden (ASN: RA-34394936), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of the Heavy Tank Company, 15th Infantry Regiment, 3d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy in Korea. On 24 May 1951, a tank-infantry task force was given the mission of securing an important road junction near Habae-jae, Korea. When Sergeant Gooden’s tank was disabled by an enemy mine, the explosion seriously injured five infantrymen who were part of the security patrol and blocked the advance of the column. Fearlessly exposing himself to the intense volume of fire sweeping the immediate area, Sergeant Gooden dismounted and directed the crew to remove the tank to the side of the road which enabled the remainder of the column to proceed. He then evacuated the wounded to a position behind the protective covering of the vehicle, where he efficiently administered first aid until the medical personnel arrived. Sergeant Gooden’s outstanding gallantry under fire and his admirable concern for the welfare of his fellow soldiers reflects the highest credit upon himself and the military service.