The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Corporal Gilbert M. Pierce (ASN: ER-12285351), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company L, 23d Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 6 October 1951 in the vicinity of Satae-ri, Korea. On this date Company L was assaulting a strongly fortified enemy-held hill. During this action, Corporal Pierce volunteered to be the point man for his unit and advanced under the direct enemy observation and fire in order to determine hostile positions and strength. In the course of this act, he single-handedly assaulted an enemy position and killed its occupants. Then under his able direction several hostile bunkers were destroyed by friendly fire. By his dogged determination and skillful maneuvering he was able to successfully accomplish a dangerous mission. As a result the enemy suffered numerous casualties and lost vital ground. The gallantry in action and outstanding devotion to duty displayed by Corporal Pierce on this occasion reflects great credit upon himself and the military service.