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 [then Sergeant] Webster C. Manuel (ASN: RA-18304448), 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 25 May 1951 in the vicinity of Umyang-ni, Korea. On this date while moving up along a mountain pass, Sergeant Manuel’s company was ambushed by a numerically superior enemy force. During the ensuing battle the platoon leader was killed and Sergeant Manuel immediately assumed command of his platoon. He deployed his men into positions where they effectively engaged the enemy and continuously exposed himself to hostile fire shouting words of encouragement and directing the fire of his men. When friendly reinforcements arrived, Sergeant Manuel reorganized his forces and led them in the final assault with fixed bayonets. So effective was this attack that the enemy was overwhelmed and destroyed. After the positions had been secured, he moved among his men directing them into positions in the event the enemy launched a counterattack. The gallantry in action and outstanding leadership displayed by Sergeant Manuel on this occasion reflects great credit upon himself and the military service.