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 Masayoshi Kawahara (ASN: US-50000246), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company L, 38th Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy on 3 September 1951 in the vicinity of Mandeau-san, Korea. On this date elements of Company L were defending their strategic positions on Hill 1181 against the attacks of a numerically superior and determined hostile force. During this assault, Private Kawahara moved from one foxhole to another, shouting words of encouragement to the members of his squad. Disregarding his personal safety, he continuously braved the intense hostile small arms, automatic weapons, and grenade fire to keep his squad a striking force. Through his fearless leadership all of the enemy’s attacks were repelled successfully. Private Kawahara’s example of leadership and courage aided immeasurably to the successful operation for Bloody Ridge. The gallantry in action and selfless devotion to duty displayed by Private Kawahara were in accordance with the esteemed traditions of the military service.