The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Master Sergeant Claudie Howell (ASN: RA-6278388), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company F, 23d Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy on 5 September 1950 in the vicinity of Changnyong, Korea. Company F was attacked by a large enemy force which succeeded, by sheer weight of numbers, in driving a wedge between two platoons. Intense hostile fire caused several casualties, including the leader of Sergeant Howell’s platoon. Assuming command of the scattered platoon he reorganized it into a cohesive fighting unit. In the course of the action he was wounded but, in spite of his intense pain, he launched and led a counterattack. When his ammunition ran low, he fearlessly infiltrated through the encircling enemy and, on three occasions, re-supplied his men with the vitally needed ammunition. He continued to lead his men skillfully, thereby enabling the company to form a new defensive perimeter into which he pulled his platoon only when he received orders to fall back. His gallant leadership was responsible for restoring order in a critical situation and reflects the highest great upon himself is in keeping with the fine traditions of the military service.