The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Corporal Francis P. Stiffler (ASN: RA-19324547), 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 19 September 1950 in the vicinity of Changnyong, Korea. On that date his company was attacking enemy-held high ground. During the assault his platoon was pinned down by intense enemy machine gun and small arms fire. With complete disregard for his personal safety he voluntarily left the security of his covered position and fearlessly advanced into the hostile field of fire. He continued his intrepid advance until he reached a position from where he succeeded in destroying an enemy machine gun emplacement with hand grenades. His heroic action relieved his platoon from heavy enemy pressure and allowed it to continue its advance with a minimum of casualties. The gallantry displayed on this occasion by Corporal Stiffler reflects the highest credit upon himself is in keeping with the fine traditions of the military service.