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 (Infantry) Robert L. Neal (ASN: 0-989402), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company I, 23d Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 9 October 1951 in the vicinity of Yang-Jimal, Korea. On that date, during an attack on heavily fortified enemy positions situated on high ground, friendly units were unable to advance due to intense hostile fire. Realizing the seriousness of this situation and disregarding his personal safety, Lieutenant Neal advanced alone in a flanking maneuver toward the enemy emplacements. With rifle fire, hand grenades and the element of surprise, he completely routed the hostile forces inflicting numerous casualties upon them. Lieutenant Neal’s courageous action enabled his platoon to resume its attack upon the objective, and was a major factor in the success of his unit’s combat mission. The gallantry in action and devotion to duty displayed by Lieutenant Neal reflects great credit upon himself and the military service.