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 [then Sergeant] Francisco Serna (ASN: RA-18310706), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company D, 23d Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy on 5 and 6 March 1951, in the vicinity of Changyong, Korea. Master Sergeant Serna was platoon leader of a 75-mm. rifle platoon being used in the manner of a .50 caliber machine gun section to defend positions between two friendly units. His platoon was successful in warding off several attacks. On one occasion the enemy infiltrated to a point directly in front of the platoon positions and inflicted seven casualties among Sergeant Serna’s men. With compete disregard for his own safety, Sergeant Serna rallied the remainder of the platoon and had them operate the rifle. Throughout the action he directed the operations of the platoon despite the fact that he had been wounded by a grenade explosion. Not until the next day did he leave his defensive position for medical attention. The gallant conduct and inspiring leadership displayed by sergeant Serna reflect great credit upon himself and the military service.