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 Thomas F. Powell (ASN: RA-45056207), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company K, 38th Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 30 July 1951 in the vicinity of Taeusan, Korea. On this date, during an attack on the well fortified enemy positions, Corporal Powell’s squad leader was wounded and the entire squad was pinned down by intense enemy small arms, automatic weapons and grenade fire. Corporal Powell assumed command of the squad and continually exposed himself to the intense enemy fire while moving up the hill using marching fire on the enemy, forcing them to abandon their positions and inflicting numerous casualties. His courageous action enabled the remainder of his squad to move forward. Corporal Powell then led his squad in a vicious assault on the enemy with fixed bayonets. The gallantry in action displayed by Corporal Powell on this occasion reflect great credit upon himself and the military service.