The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Sergeant [then Corporal] Alva U. Taylor (ASN: RA-19346514), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company E, 2d Battalion, 15th Infantry Regiment, 3d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy in Korea. On 31 January 1951, near Yongin, Korea, while gaining access to a ridge leading to the objective, Hill 425, the greater part of two infantry companies were pinned down by enemy machine gun and sniper fire. Disregarding the intense hostile barrage, Sergeant Taylor deployed his squad and fearlessly led them in a strong bayonet charge which inflicted many casualties on the enemy and routed the remaining troops from their positions. During the course of this fierce action, Sergeant Taylor was wounded, but he continued his aggressive assault, personally charging five emplacements and killing their occupants. It was not until his unit had secured its objective that he permitted himself to be evacuated. Sergeant Taylor’s exhibition of gallantry and forceful leadership reflects the highest credit upon himself and the military service.