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 Private First Class Robert J. Penn (ASN: US-52066666), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company K, 23d Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy on 7 October 1952 in the vicinity of Pangsok-tong, North Korea. On that date, Private Penn was Squad Leader of a 57-mm. Recoilless Rifle squad in Company K, engaged in defending Hill 291, a key terrain feature, against a stubborn enemy assault. During an especially critical point in the battle, Private Penn, realizing the seriousness of the situation, personally took the recoilless rifle to an exposed vantage point on the forward slope of the hill. From his hazardous position, he ignored the intense enemy artillery and mortar fire, and with complete disregard for personal safety, delivered accurate and effective fire into the midst of the attacking enemy. While re-laying upon the target, he was mortally wounded by a burst of enemy small arms fire. The voluntary actions of Private Penn in leaving his place of comparative safety and the great personal courage displayed while tenaciously maintaining his dangerous position aided immeasurably in the success of the mission and reflect great credit upon himself and the military service.