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 (Armor) Donald Jersey (ASN: 0-130468), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Tank Company, 23d Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy on 19 September 1950 and 20 September 1950, in the vicinity of Sinban-ni, Korea. On the night of 19 September 1950 he was the leader of a tank platoon attached to a rifle company in its attack upon Hill 292. The rifle elements encountered heavy resistance and were forced to withdraw under intense hostile fire. Immediately Lieutenant Jersey released the rifle platoon attached to his tank for protection. Exposing himself to the withering enemy mortar, automatic weapons, and small arms fire he directed his tanks’ fire upon the enemy emplacements, covering the disengagement of the rifle company. After defensive positions had been organized, the enemy launched a series of frenzied assaults upon the company’s perimeter. With complete disregard for his personal safety he moved from one tank to another directing their fire. Fearlessly he leaped to the deck of a “buttoned up” tank and commenced firing its .50 caliber machine gun with deadly effect upon the advancing enemy, ceasing his fire only when the weapon was shot from his hands. At 0530 hours on 20 September 1950, the enemy once more launched an attack in great force. Undeterred by the heavy enemy fire he placed his tank in a position which covered the direct approach to the perimeter. The fire delivered by his tank blunted the enemy’s assault and forced them to withdraw with great losses. His intrepidity during this critical engagement prevented the enemy from overrunning the rifle company and was instrumental in averting serious casualties. The gallantry and inspirational leadership displayed on this occasion by Lieutenant Jersey reflect the highest credit upon himself are in keeping with the fine traditions of the military service.