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The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Bronze Star Medal with Combat “V” to Second Lieutenant (Armor) Paul T. McBride (ASN: 0-968388), United States Army, for heroic achievement on 28 September 1951 in the vicinity of Satae-ri, Korea. On this date, a machine-gun platoon from Company M became surrounded by a numerically superior enemy force and was under constant attack by the enemy. Lieutenant McBride, platoon leader, formulated a plan for the rescue of the friendly troops and personally led his platoon over the difficult route of approach to the surrounded unit. He kept himself exposed to the intense enemy fire to direct the rescue operation. Lieutenant McBride personally manned the machine gun mounted on the turret of his tank and kept up a sustained, effective fire to cover the withdrawal of the friendly troops. As a result of his excellent planning, direction, and active participation, the surrounded men were evacuated from the hostile territory without any further casualties. The heroism in action and complete disregard for his personal safety displayed by Lieutenant McBride on this occasion reflects great credit upon himself and the military service.

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Second Lieutenant (Armor)

    Regiment:

    38th Infantry Regiment

    Division:

    2d Infantry Division

    Action Date:

    August 28 & 29, 1951
    Headquarters, 2d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 660 (November 1, 1951)

    The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Second Lieutenant (Armor) Paul T. McBride (ASN: 0-968388), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Tank Company, 38th Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 28 and 29 August 1951 in the vicinity of Pia-ri, Korea. On these dates, Lieutenant McBride, platoon leader of a tank unit, was assigned to the 2d Battalion, which was forced to withdraw due to intense enemy fire from well concealed positions. During the withdrawal, Lieutenant McBride directed his tank into a pass adjacent to the hill and, disregarding the enemy fire, personally operated the machine gun, mounted on the turret of his tank. From this position, he employed an accurate and effective base of fire upon hostile positions, inflicting numerous enemy casualties. Through his courageous action and outstanding leadership, friendly units were able to withdraw and regroup safely to prepare for a counterattack without exposing their positions. The gallantry in action displayed by Lieutenant McBride on this occasion reflect great credit upon himself and the military service.