The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class Denis M. Markham (ASN: RA-16373904), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company C, 38th Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy on 22 December 1951 in the vicinity of Sangasan, Korea. On that date, Private Markham’s platoon moved out on a patrol with the mission of capturing a prisoner and destroying enemy positions. During its advance the patrol was pinned down by intense enemy mortar,, automatic-weapons and small-arms fire. Completely disregarding his own safety, Private Markham sprang to his feet and charged up the ridge through the deadly blaze of enemy fire. Storming the enemy emplacements, he destroyed them and inflicted numerous enemy casualties with his rifle and grenades. As a result of his intrepid and selfless actions the platoon was enabled to resume its advance and complete the mission successfully. The gallantry in action and selfless devotion to duty displayed by Sergeant Markham reflect great credit upon himself and the military service.