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 Raymond O. Pierce (ASN: RA-12286700), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company C, 2d Engineer Combat Battalion, 2d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy on 28 November 1950, at Yong Su-dong, Korea. His unit was in the village of Yong Su-dong when it was attacked in the early morning hours by a largo enemy force. From his position in a hastily formed defense line, Corporal Pierce observed an abandoned heavy machine gun. With complete disregard for his own safety, he ran through heavy enemy mortar and small arms fire to the gun. When he reached this position he loaded the gun and immediately delivered flanking fire into the enemy’s positions. He also threw hand grenades into the midst of the enemy. By his actions Corporal Pierce disorganized the enemy and forced him to flee from the village. While courageously engaging the enemy, he was wounded twice, but continued to fire his weapon until all available ammunition was expended. He was wounded a third time as his unit withdrew. Corporal Pierce was last seen tenaciously holding his position to cover the withdrawal of his unit. The gallantry in action displayed by Corporal Pierce reflects great credit upon himself and upholds the highest traditions of the Military Service of the United States.