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 First Lieutenant (Infantry) Murray L. Payne (ASN: 0-1688548), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of 2d Reconnaissance Company, 2d Infantry Division, on 14 February 1951, in the vicinity of Chaum-ni, Korea. On that date the 2d Reconnaissance Company with Company L, 9th Infantry Regiment, had the mission of establishing blocking positions at a road junction at Chaum-ni. The perimeter was attacked by approximately 1,000 enemy armed with small arms, automatic weapons, and mortars. Lieutenant Payne continuously exposed himself to intense hostile fire to direct the fire of his platoon. When the leader of the rifle unit on his left was wounded, Lieutenant Payne, with complete disregard for his personal safety, assumed an exposed position in order to control the adjacent rifle unit as well as his own platoon. As a result, both units laid down very effective firepower which accounted for numerous enemy casualties. During the withdrawal which followed, Lieutenant Payne volunteered to maintain a rear guard action while the remainder of the unit moved out. His courageous action at this time successfully held off the enemy until most of the company escaped. Though critically wounded he refused to be evacuated until his men were safe. As a result, Lieutenant Payne was captured and killed by the enemy. The gallantry displayed by Lieutenant Payne reflects great credit upon himself and upholds the highest traditions of the Military Service of the United States.