The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class Marvin Riddle (ASN: RA-15251689), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company D, 9th Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy on 26 February 1951, in the vicinity of Wonju, Korea. On that date his machine gun section was attacked to a rifle company. At approximately 0630 hours the company was attacked by a strong enemy force. The friendly troops immediately fired upon the enemy, causing them to split into two groups, one group making a frontal attack, while the other group attempted a flanking movement. Private Thompson immediately moved his machine gun to an exposed position on the reverse slope, and calmly awaited the enemy thrust. From this exposed position he delivered accurate and deadly fire upon the enemy. Although his assistant gunner was struck and killed by enemy fire, he steadfastly remained in place. His actions contributed greatly to repulsing the enemy attack. The sustained courage, grim determination and great tactical skill displayed by Private Thompson reflects great credit upon himself and upholds the highest traditions of the Military Service of the United States.