The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant (Infantry), [then Second Lieutenant] Billy Joe Rountree (ASN: 0-59327), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company G, 2d Battalion, 24th Infantry Regiment, 25th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in Korea. An infantry company attacking to secure a key hill in the vicinity of Haman, Korea, on 13 August 1950, received withering fire from a hostile force firmly entrenched in commanding positions. When the inexperienced troops became demoralized under the continuing barrage, Lieutenant Rountree advanced to a most exposed position to reorganize the scattered elements of the company. Expertly directing the actions of his men, he neutralized the enemy’s effectiveness, thereby facilitating the evacuation of the wounded. Lieutenant Rountree’s notable courage, exemplary leadership and unremitting devotion to duty are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.