Sponsored by:

Navy Federal Credit Union

The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Sergeant Clifford M. Karlson (ASN: RA-37488757), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company K, 23d Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 13 October 1951 in the vicinity of Satae-ri, Korea. On this date Company K was assigned the mission of attacking and securing an enemy-held hill. During the assault determined hostile resistance from enemy bunkers was stalling the advance of the friendly elements. Without hesitating and with complete disregard for his own safety, Sergeant Karlson voluntarily led his squad in the attack upon the enemy emplacements. Advancing through the withering hail of enemy fire, he single-handedly assaulted the foremost bunker and killed several of its occupants. Highly inspired by Sergeant Karlson’s dauntless courage, his men followed him and in the ensuing fire fight successfully destroyed many enemy emplacements. His aggressive leadership and dogged determination were directly responsible for the success of his unit in this operation. The gallantry in action displayed by Sergeant Karlson on this occasion reflects great credit upon himself and the military service.

Awards Received

  • Bronze Star Medal

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Sergeant

    Batallion:

    3d Battalion

    Regiment:

    23d Infantry Regiment

    Division:

    2d Infantry Division

    Action Date:

    September 18, 1951
    Headquarters, 2d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 811 (December 4, 1951)

    The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Bronze Star Medal with Combat “V” to Sergeant Clifford M. Karlson (ASN: RA-37488757), United States Army, for heroic achievement on 18 September 1951 in the vicinity of Satae-ri, Korea. On that date Company K was engaged in an intense fire fight with a numerically superior enemy force. During this action, Sergeant Karlson, a platoon leader, was informed that an officer from another friendly unit lay mortally wounded in an advanced position. With complete disregard for his personal safety, he volunteered to leave his site of comparative safety and make an attempt to recover the officer’s body. Undaunted by the risks involved and unmindful of the heavy enemy small arms and mortar fire, Sergeant Karlson advanced across the fire-swept area searching for the officer. Although he failed in his mission, his courageous action and valiant efforts were an inspiration to all of his comrades. The heroic conduct displayed by Sergeant Karlson on this occasion reflects great credit upon himself and the military service.