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 Isaac Dawson Stotler, Jr. (ASN: US-52094154), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company H, 38th Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy on 20 September 1952 in the vicinity of Sedmak, North Korea. On that date Private Stotler was serving as Squad Leader of a machine gun squad which had been attacked to the assault elements of Company G for a night attack on Hill 266, “Old Baldy”. At approximately 2200 hours on the night of 20 September 1952, Private Stotler fearlessly led his men up the steep slope toward the objective through a tremendous barrage of enemy mortar, artillery and small arms fire. Upon reaching the crest of the hill, he quickly chose a position for his gun to be mounted, and then moved to the right of the position to deliver flank protection. Caught in a vicious cross-fire from enemy machine gun emplacements and a severe mortar and artillery barrage, he was hit three successive times by fragments from enemy hand grenades. Although badly wounded, he refused medical attention and urged his machine gun crew to continue their fire upon the enemy, while he steadfastly delivered effective protecting fire from his flank position. Shortly thereafter, during the noise and confusion of battle, he was lost from view. His heroic actions prevented the enemy from over-running the friendly machine gun position and aided immeasurably in the success of the mission. Private Stotler’s heroic sacrifice and devotion to duty reflect great credit upon himself and the military service.