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 Private First Class Leonard John Kahl (ASN: US-55051387), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company D, 1st Battalion, 7th Infantry Regiment, 3d Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in Korea. On 4 October 1951, during the 1st Battalion’s attack against the enemy on Hill 281 near Chungse-ri, Korea, the 4th Squad of Company D’s machine gun platoon was furnishing supporting fire for Company C, the assaulting infantry unit. Advancing with the lead elements, Private Kahl, an assistant machine gunner, voluntarily left his squad in order to locate hostile positions. Fearlessly moving through an intense hostile artillery and mortar barrage, he pointed out well-entrenched and heavily fortified enemy bunkers, enabling his unit to bring devastating fire upon the foe. Heedless of his personal safety, Private Kahl made numerous trips through the intense hostile fire, bravely executing his voluntarily assumed task, until the enemy was forced to fall back. Soon afterward, the squad’s exposed position came under a saturating hostile mortar barrage in which Private Kahl was mortally wounded. Materially assisted by his daring actions, the squad accounted for approximately 50 enemy dead, contributing to the ultimate success of the battalion’s mission. The resolute gallantry and exemplary courage displayed by Private Kahl reflects the highest credit upon himself and the military service.