The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant (Infantry) Ralph J. Marx (ASN: 0-1324431), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company B, 38th Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 1 September 1951 in the vicinity of Kongnae, Korea. On that date, as his platoon was attacking an enemy-held hill, a heavy concentration of hostile fire halted its advance. Lieutenant Marx, fearlessly exposing himself to the intense enemy fire, moved about his men checking their positions and directing their fire. Continually hampered by fire from several enemy automatic weapons, he courageously assaulted the hostile position, killing its crew. He then threw several grenades into several other enemy bunkers and succeeded in destroying them while inflicting numerous enemy casualties, thereby clearing the way for his platoon’s advance. As a result of his dauntless courage and devotion to duty friendly units were able to continue in the attack and secure their objective with a minimum of casualties. The gallantry in action and outstanding leadership displayed by Lieutenant Marx on this occasion reflects great credit upon himself and the military service.