The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class Jessie J. Odom, Jr. (ASN: RA-14340955), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of the 3d Reconnaissance Company, 3d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy in Korea. On 26 May 1951, the platoon, of which Private Odom was a member, contacted an enemy road block near Sawolpyong, Korea. In order to remove this obstacle, Private Odom’s squad was ordered to secure a hill on the right flank of the platoon. As the squad cautiously approached the crest of the summit, the enemy opened fire and threw a barrage of hand grenades, pinning the group of soldiers to the ground. Realizing that the squad was in grave danger, due to its inability to move, Private Odom fearlessly charged the enemy positions on the hill top, killing four of the enemy ad causing the remainder to flee. This action enabled his comrades to advance and occupy the strategic emplacements. Private Odom’s boldness and gallantry displayed in this instance reflects the highest credit upon himself and the military service.