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 Hilton N. Johnson (ASN: RA-6971953), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company C, 1st Battalion, 15th Infantry Regiment, 3d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy in Korea. On 19 December 1950, near Hungnam, Korea, Sergeant Johnson’s unit was in a defensive position protecting a vital air strip when it was fiercely attacked by strong enemy forces. The numerically superior enemy force penetrated the positions and overran the line at a point where several men had been wounded. This caused much confusion in the platoon area and one man excitedly commenced yelling for the platoon to withdraw. Sergeant Johnson, with complete disregard for his personal safety, exposed himself to intense enemy fire from the front, flanks, and rear, in order to reach this man and quiet him. He then fearlessly moved along the front encouraging the men to hold their positions. Restoring the confidence in his platoon, he reorganized them and led them in a counter-attack against the enemy forces, plugging the gap and driving back the enemy. Sergeant Johnson’s gallantry and leadership reflects great credit upon himself and the military service.