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 Robert Henderson, Jr. (ASN: RA-12363720), 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 20 September 1952 in the vicinity of Chorwon, North Korea. On that date, Private Henderson was serving with a Machine Gun Squad attached to Company G which was engaged in a coordinated attack upon Hill 266, “OLD BALDY”. As they advanced up the steep slippery terrain through a murderous hail of enemy fire, Private Henderson noticed that his Second Gunner, becoming fatigued by the arduous climb, was dropping behind. Placing the tripod he was carrying upon the ground, he took the receiver from his Second Gunner, mounted it upon the tripod and, shouldering this along with a box of ammunition, proceeded on to the crest of the objective. Setting up his gun, Private Henderson then, with complete disregard for personal safety, remained in his exposed position while delivering a devastating hail of fire into the ranks of the fanatically attacking enemy. When his machine gun failed to fire, he grabbed a rifle, leaped to his feet, and inflicted numerous enemy casualties with his accurate fire. Immediately assuming command of the remaining men when his Squad Leader and Section Sergeant were wounded, Private Henderson seized another machine gun and dashed across the fire swept terrain to a position from which a grazing line of fire could be delivered upon the enemy. From this position he continued to pour a deadly stream of fire upon the enemy until they became disorganized and were forced to withdraw. His courageous actions and inspiring leadership saved the lives of many of his comrades and aided immeasurably in the success of the mission. The gallantry in action and consummate devotion to duty displayed by Private Henderson reflect great credit upon himself and the military service.