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) [then Second Lieutenant] Derry Padilla Hernandez (ASN: 0-2212051/RA-39007742), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of the 9th Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against the enemy near Kunu-ri, Korea, on 26 November 1950. When his platoon was attacked by an enemy force of overwhelming numerically superiority, Lieutenant Hernandez ordered his men to withdraw to join other friendly forces, and then personally remained behind and defended the withdrawal, alternately firing his rifle and throwing hand grenades. Although twice thrown from his foxhole by the explosion of enemy mortar rounds, he continued his gallant defensive actions until the last of his men had safely withdrawn. Later, when his platoon was subjected to withering enemy crossfire while moving to new positions, Lieutenant Hernandez fearlessly exposed himself to the devastating fire to give first aid to the wounded, load them on vehicles for evacuation and direct the return fire of his men. His coolness under fire was a source of inspiration to members of his platoon and was instrumental in repulsing the enemy. The gallantry displayed by Lieutenant Hernandez reflects great credit upon himself and upholds the highest traditions of the Military Service of the United States.