The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Second Lieutenant (Infantry), [then Master Sergeant] Patrick J. Stowell (ASN: 0-2262122), United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as a member of Company B, 1st Battalion, 19th Infantry Regiment, 24th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy near Chon-do, Korea, on 17 August 1950. During an advance by his company on enemy hillside positions, his platoon was held up by intense mortar and machine gun fire. Seeing that this fire threatened to disorganize the company’s advance he determined to attack. Organizing the platoon, he led the assault, and the men, inspired by his example, overran the position. When strengthened enemy forces counter-attacked, Lieutenant Stowell led the defense of the position and through his effective us of hand grenades, the enemy was repulsed with heavy losses. His gallant example reflects the greatest credit on himself and the United States Infantry.