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 Private First Class Joseph F. Spann (ASN: RA-16293216), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company G, 23d Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy on 30 November 1950 in the vicinity of Kunu-ri, Korea. On that date a large force attacked and overran a unit on one flank of his company. Intense hostile fire inflicted numerous casualties and the members of the unit were withdrawing in a disorganized manner under heavy enemy pressure. Private Spann, a member of his company’s 60-mm. mortar squad, immediately dashed through heavy enemy fire and assumed command of the withdrawing troops. Rallying and encouraging his men, he formed them into a skirmish line and directed their fire against the advancing enemy. The accurate fire caused serious casualties to the enemy and forced them to halt the attack. Taking advantage of the enemy’s momentary confusion and disorganization, Private Spann launched and led a counterattack against the numerically superior hostile force, forcing them to retreat in disorder. He then consolidated his newly-gained position and, while doing so, was struck by enemy fire and fell mortally wounded. The gallantry and inspirational leadership displayed by Private Spann reflect great credit upon himself and fully uphold the finest traditions of the military service.