The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Corporal Eugene L. Ottesen (ASN: US-57513689), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company G, 2d Battalion, 23d Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against the enemy near Chipyong, Korea, on 15 February 1951. Company G came under overwhelming enemy pressure, and was forced to withdraw for a distance of approximately 400 yards. During the withdrawal, the gunner of Corporal Ottesen’s machine gun crew was wounded. Corporal Ottesen immediately took over the operation of the weapon and so deadly was his fire that three enemy onslaughts were hurled back with heavy losses. Disregarding the overwhelming odds against him, he held fast and continued to cover his company’s withdrawal until, under the sheer weight of numbers, his position was overrun. The gallantry and devotion to duty displayed by Corporal Ottesen reflect the highest credit upon himself are in keeping with the fine traditions of the military service.