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 Robert B. Swanson (ASN: RA-16165929), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company C, 23d Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy on 1 August 1952 in the vicinity of Sangpobang, North Korea. On that date, Corporal Swanson was a member of a unit which was defending a newly won position against the savage counterattacks of an overwhelming enemy force. In the course of this action, Corporal Swanson observed that the machine gun which covered a vital point of enemy advance was unmanned. Fully realizing the serious threat this placed upon his entire unit, Corporal Swanson, with complete disregard for his personal safety, crawled over the fire swept area to the weapons emplacement. In full view of the enemy, Corporal Swanson clung to this position and delivered devastating fire upon the enemy until the weapon jammed. Corporal Swanson then picked up his rifle and continued to pour devastating fire upon the foe, compelling them to abandon the attack. He remained in this exposed position until he was seriously wounded and had to be evacuated. The gallantry in action displayed by Corporal Swanson reflects great credit upon himself and the military service.