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) Linton D. Stables, Jr. (ASN: 0-926261), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company B, 1st Battalion, 15th Infantry Regiment, 3d Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in Korea. On 5 February 1952, the Third Platoon of Company B was occupying defensive positions near Koyangdae, Korea. Lieutenant Stables volunteered to command the group in the absence of the regular platoon leader, who had been evacuated due to sickness. The outpost was subjected to an overwhelming enemy artillery barrage, followed closely by a fanatical banzai charge. With complete disregard for his own safety, Lieutenant Stables exposed himself to the devastating hostile fire as he moved over the embattled terrain, giving words of encouragement to the men and directing their fire. As the onrushing foe advanced to within 50 yards of the defensive positions, it became evident that the friendly force could not hold the outpost without suffering heavy casualties. Ordering the men to withdraw, Lieutenant Stables remained with two machine-gunners to provide covering fire. Although painfully wounded, he single-handedly manned a mortar and with deadly accuracy, inflicted heavy casualties on the hordes of hostile troops. Noting that his men had reached safety, Lieutenant Stables called to his machine-gunners to withdraw but by this time the enemy was in the trench with them and firing at close range. Though he was wounded again and was unable to walk, Lieutenant Stables continued to throw hand grenades and fire his weapon. This unflinching courage so disorganized and confused the foe that Lieutenant Stables’ comrades were able to evacuate him to safety. Lieutenant Stables’ outstanding gallantry and inspiring leadership reflects the highest credit upon himself and the military service.