The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class Columbus C. Sluss (ASN: US-52118288), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company L, 17th Infantry Regiment, 7th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy near Chich’on, Korea. On 8 August 1952, as a friendly support team assumed positions from which they could provide support fire for a friendly attack, they were subjected to a withering barrage of enemy small-arms, mortar, and artillery fire and the squad leader and assistant squad leader were wounded. Private Sluss, immediately assumed command of the group, placed each man in the most advantageous positions, appointed their fields of fire, and then personally manned a machine gun. Private Sluss placed a withering barrage of fire on the enemy positions, and he, in turn, was subjected to intense concentrations of enemy artillery and mortar fire as they attempted to silence his highly effective fire. Repeatedly moving his position, Private Sluss maintained his intense volume of accurate fire until his ammunition was expended. Noticing a wounded ammunition bearer, Private Sluss dashed to his side, secured the ammunition, and returned to his position where he again directed heavy fire on the enemy. When his ammunition was again expended and no more was to be had, Private Sluss defiantly exposed himself to the severe enemy fire as he moved to the aid of his wounded comrades. The gallantry displayed by Private Sluss reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the Military Service of the United States.