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 Corporal Francis L. Hewett (ASN: RA-17251808), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Heavy Mortar Company, 5th Regimental Combat Team, 24th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy near Kusong, Korea, on 30 October 1950. The spearheading company of the regiment was moving down the road toward the town while friendly mortars were concentrating their fire on the enemy firing from the high ground to the left of the road. The advancing tanks and infantry were brought to a halt by an enemy minefield and enemy mortar fire began covering the road, causing many casualties. Corporal Hewitt, forward observer for the lead company, moved forward through intense enemy fire with complete disregard for his personal safety. He continued forward until he reached a position from which he could observe the enemy mortars. From this exposed position he called back their locations to fire for effect upon them. Just after he had called fire for effect an incoming mortar round fatally wounded both Corporal Hewitt and his South Korean Radio operator. Through Corporal Hewitt’s devotion to duty and bravery friendly mortars were able to knock out the enemy guns and arrest the fire on the infantry. His extraordinary courage in moving to the front of both tanks and infantry reflect great credit upon himself and uphold the highest traditions of the United States Infantry. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Corporal Hewett, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.