The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private Robert C. Hawkins (ASN: US-52090085), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company A, 38th Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 31 August 1951 in the vicinity of Taeusan, Korea. On that date Company A was attacking a strategic enemy-held hill, when Private Hawkins’ platoon was halted by heavy fire from an enemy machine gun emplacement. With utter disregard for his personal safety, Private Hawkins with a comrade, advanced towards the enemy and while he provided covering fire, his comrade threw hand grenades into the enemy emplacement. In the final phase of the assault, after inflicting numerous casualties upon the enemy, Private Hawkins was fatally wounded by enemy fire. The self-sacrificing deed of Private Hawkins enabled his company to advance and successfully secure its objective. The gallantry in action displayed by Private Hawkins on this occasion reflect great credit upon himself and the military service.