The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Corporal Kiyoshi Masuda (ASN: RA-30102205), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Headquarters, 2d Battalion, 23d Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action on 22 August 1950 about ten miles north of Taegu, Korea. On 22 August 1950, Corporal Masuda was attached to a rifle platoon of Company G which was holding a defensive position on the right flank of the Second Battalion’s sector, approximately ten miles north of Taegu. Corporal Masuda’s mission was to act as interpreter and liaison between American troops and Republic of Korea forces which were in the defensive position in the vicinity of the American forces. At approximately 1330 hours, the positions were attacked by a superior enemy force. The platoon leader and platoon sergeant were casualties in the first few minutes of this action. Republic of Korea troops assisting the American forces were forced off their sector of the hill by a heavy concentration of enemy fire, and became disorganized during the ensuing withdrawal. Corporal Matsuda, acting on his own initiative and displaying great qualities of leadership, reorganized the Republic of Korea forces, directing them to the most advantageous positions, in spite of the hail of machine gun, small arms fire, and bursting hand grenades. Corporal Masuda’s continued to direct the Republic of Korea forces until the objective was gained and reinforcements arrived. Corporal Masuda’s actions in starting the attack and regaining lost ground protected the right flank of the battalion from enemy penetration, and enabled the battalion to complete its mission successfully. Corporal Masuda’s leadership, courage and resourcefulness reflect great credit upon himself and the military service.