The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Sergeant First Class Kenneth E. Pruett (ASN: ER-35104152), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Tank Company, 23d Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy on 19 May 1951, near Pukchang-ni, Korea. On that date he was tank commander in a tank platoon which had the mission of blocking approaches and providing supporting fire for an infantry battalion. As the enemy started their counterattack, Sergeant Pruett, with complete disregard for his personal safety, fired the .50 caliber machine gun from the turret of the tank and also directed its fire. During this action he was struck in the left arm by fire from an enemy automatic weapon. Although wounded, he refused to be evacuated, and when a friendly tank on his right faced possible destruction he directed fire upon the enemy force, forcing them to withdraw. His courageous action undoubtedly saved the positions of a rifle company and prevented an enemy breakthrough. The gallant conduct of Sergeant Pruett reflects great credit upon himself and upholds the highest traditions of the Military Service of the United States.