The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Second Lieutenant (Infantry) Walter E. Rodgers (ASN: 0-2262065), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company I, 23rd Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 18 May 1951 in the vicinity of Chaun-ni, Korea. On that date Lieutenant Rodgers was leading his unit across a fire-swept terrain in order to avoid complete encirclement by a numerically superior enemy force. Upon reaching a point of comparative safety from enemy fire, he observed a strong hostile force descending a hill in a determined effort to cut off the remainder of friendly units. Lieutenant Rodgers immediately reorganized his men and with complete disregard for his personal safety engaged the enemy force. Through his forceful leadership, his men were able to repel the hostile unit until the remaining friendly elements had withdrawn to positions of safety. Lieutenant Rodgers’ heroic actions were highly responsible for the successful withdrawal of friendly units with a minimum of casualties. The gallantry in action demonstrated by Lieutenant Rodgers on this occasion reflect great credit upon himself and the military service.