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 Sergeant First Class Charlie W. Payne (ASN: RA-35738148), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of the 442d Counter Intelligence Corps Detachment, United States Army. On 27 June 1951, near Kachil-li, Korea, Sergeant Payne escorted four other intelligence agents approximately five miles beyond friendly lines into enemy territory for the purpose of dispatching them on an espionage mission of great potential value to the 3d Division. After successful completion of this assignment, Sergeant Payne lingered in the area to question civilians concerning the size and location of enemy concentrations known to be in the vicinity. In the courageous performance of this hazardous duty, he encountered an enemy patrol and in an ensuing exchange of fire, Sergeant Payne was mortally wounded. The gallantry and outstanding courage exhibited by Sergeant Payne reflects the highest credit upon himself and are in keeping with the esteemed traditions of the military service.