The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Corporal Francis H. Spaeth (ASN: US-55047833), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company B, 38th Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 13 October 1951 in the vicinity of Kongnae, Korea. On this date the enemy launched a counterattack on friendly positions and Corporal Spaeth’s squad was cut off from the remaining units. Immediately rallying his men, Corporal Spaeth voluntarily led his squad and advanced toward the enemy in an attempt to break through his lines. Amid a withering hail of enemy small arms and machine gun fire, he courageously led his men, personally inflicting numerous casualties upon the enemy with his accurate rifle fire. In the course of this action, Corporal Spaeth was painfully wounded but, without any thought for his personal safety, continued to advance. With victory in sight a burst of hostile automatic weapons fire fatally wounded him. His brave and intrepid actions were an inspiration to his comrades and undoubtedly saved many of their lives. The gallantry in action and outstanding leadership displayed by Corporal Spaeth reflects great credit upon himself and the military service.