The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star to Master Sergeant Joseph F. Kendrick (ASN: RA-32025106), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company K, 3d Battalion, 7th Infantry Regiment, 3d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy in Korea. On 22 May 1951, while patrolling a mountainous area in the vicinity of Soksa-ri, Korea, Sergeant Kendrick’s platoon was suddenly subjected to intense fire from a series of well-concealed enemy positions. Realizing that the platoon was becoming rapidly disorganized, Sergeant Kendrick repeatedly exposed himself to the withering hostile fire sweeping the area in order to rally his men. He efficiently reorganized the platoon and deployed it to tactical advantage; but, when it was discovered that the enemy was overwhelmingly superior in numbers, the order was given to withdraw. Although fragments from an exploding mortar round wounded Sergeant Kendrick in the face and knocked him to the ground, he courageously arose and led the platoon to more tenable positions. Sergeant Kendrick’s exceptional gallantry and aggressive leadership reflect great credit upon himself and are in keeping with the high traditions of the military service.