The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Master Sergeant David J. Rodgers (ASN: RA-33271791), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company I, 23d Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 10 October 1951 in the vicinity of Paeam, Korea. On this date during an attack on a heavily fortified enemy-held hill, friendly elements were pinned down by the intense machine gun fire from a hostile emplacement. Sergeant Rodgers, realizing the seriousness of the situation and with complete indifference to the fire directed at him, single-handedly assaulted the enemy position. With grim determination, he skillfully maneuvered himself until he had advanced to within a few yards of the enemy. At this point, with hand grenades, he destroyed the hostile emplacement and killed its occupants. Inspired by his courageous action his comrades immediately resumed their attack and secured their objective successfully. The gallantry in action and selfless devotion to duty displayed by Sergeant Rodgers on this occasion reflects great credit upon himself and the military service.