The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant (Infantry) Maurice O. Hedeman (ASN: 0-1341222), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company G, 2d Battalion, 21st Infantry Regiment, 24th Infantry Division, in Korea on 14 October 1951. His company had the mission of attacking and securing a strategic hill laced with a network of well-fortified trenches and bunkers containing an over-strength enemy company armed with small arms, automatic weapons, and mortars. Lieutenant Hedeman, Platoon Leader, led his unit in a swift, powerful thrust against the hostile forces. With complete disregard for his own safety, he continuously exposed himself to the devastating hail of enemy fire as he moved among his men, directing the fighting. The friendly troops pushed the enemy to the reverse slope of the hill but were then subjected to lobbed grenades and close-range machine gun fire. Lieutenant Hedeman fearlessly moved to the front of his men and, despite the extreme danger, led a charge against the remaining enemy. The riflemen fought with such fury and aggressiveness that they completely routed the hostile soldiers, killing 20, capturing 14 and destroying a large amount of tactically valuable equipment. Lieutenant Hedeman’s courageous action, exemplary leadership and selfless devotion to duty contributed immeasurably to the success of his unit’s mission and reflect the highest credit on himself and the United States Infantry.