The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Sergeant Henry J. Maxwell (ASN: RA-14036444), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company B, 9th Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy on 31 August 1950 near Changnyong, Korea. On the night of that date overwhelming enemy forces had penetrated our defenses along the Naktong River and were forcing our troops to withdraw. While performing his duties as a cook, Sergeant Maxwell observed a machine gun that had been abandoned by an adjacent unit. Although unfamiliar with that type of weapon, he unhesitatingly ran up the hill and commenced firing the machine gun at the attacking enemy. During this action he inflicted many casualties upon the enemy and undoubtedly saved the lives of many of his comrades. Sergeant Maxwell’s gallantry and disregard for his own safety reflect the highest credit upon himself are in keeping with the fine traditions of the military service.