The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star to Sergeant [then Corporal] Charles R. Puckett (ASN: US-52046782), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company B, 38th Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 11 October 1951 in the vicinity of Kongnae, Korea. On this date Sergeant Puckett’s unit was attacking a strategic and heavily fortified enemy-held hill. During the ensuing action intense automatic weapons fire from an enemy bunker pinned down his unit. Sergeant Puckett, realizing the seriousness of the situation and disregarding his personal safety, assaulted the emplacement. With hand grenades and rifle fire he succeeded in destroying the enemy bunker and inflicting numerous casualties upon the enemy. Upon returning to his unit he found the platoon sergeant wounded. Immediately reorganizing the men Sergeant Puckett led them in the assault until the hostile positions were completely overrun. His courage, daring, and outstanding leadership aided materially in the successful completion of his unit’s mission. The gallantry in action displayed by Sergeant Puckett on this occasion reflect great credit upon himself and the military service.

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 [then Private First Class] Charles R. Puckett (ASN: US-52046782), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company B, 38th Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 1 September 1951 in the vicinity of Mandae-ri, Korea. On that date, during an attack on an enemy-held hill, Corporal Puckett’s squad was pinned down by intense enemy small arms and automatic weapons fire. With friendly casualties mounting, Corporal Puckett, realizing the seriousness of the situation, advanced toward the enemy emplacements. With hand grenades, he succeeded in destroying the enemy emplacement, inflicting numerous casualties upon the enemy. Reuniting his men, Corporal Puckett led them forward completely overwhelming the enemy. The gallantry in action displayed by Corporal Puckett reflect great credit upon himself and the military service.