The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class Wesley N. Hawkins (ASN: RA-4013598), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company L, 38th Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy on 30 May 1951, in the vicinity of Kosa-ri, Korea. Company L was ordered to attack an enemy roadblock and Corporal Hawkins was acting platoon leader of the leading platoon in this attack. As his platoon moved down the road, it suddenly came under heavy enemy mortar, small arms and automatic weapons fire, and had to seek cover. Immediately Corporal Hawkins moved his men in firing positions and directed their fire at enemy targets. Throughout the enemy assault, Corporal Hawkins moved from man to man, encouraging them to hold their positions and shifting their fire to new targets. The valiant stand made by the platoon, under his inspiring and heroic leadership, was responsible for preventing the encirclement of the company when after a three hour firefight the opponent finally ceased his attack. The gallantry demonstrated by Corporal Hawkins reflects great credit upon himself and upholds the highest traditions of the Military Service of the United States.