The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain (Infantry) Frederick B. Topper (ASN: 0-1294935), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 27th Infantry Regiment, 25th Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy in Korea. The Intelligence and Reconnaissance Platoon was reconnoitering enemy territory in the vicinity of Yechon, Korea, on 19 July 1950, when the lead vehicle was subjected to enemy rifle and machine gun fire which caused the occupants to seek cover. Observing that one of the occupants was wounded and lying on the road near the enemy emplacement, Captain Topper drove a jeep forward and assisted in the recovery of the casualty. Returning to the scene again despite continuing hostile machine gun and small arms fire, he assisted in the recovery of the abandoned vehicle. Captain Topper’s conspicuous courage and exemplary leadership reflect great credit upon himself and uphold the highest traditions of the Military Service of the United States.

The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star to Captain (Infantry) Frederick B. Topper (ASN: 0-1294935), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 27th Infantry Regiment, 25th Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy in Korea. On 3 September 1950, near Haman, Korea, Captain Topper, the Battalion S-2, assumed command of two companies whose leaders had become casualties in the fierce fighting to attain the ground held by a numerically superior, well-entrenched enemy force. Despite the small numbers of men available and the continuing concerted hostile fire, Captain Topper quickly organized an effective team, moving among the men to aid the wounded and assure adequate supplies of ammunition. He then led the group forward across the fire-swept terrain in an assault which culminated in rout of the enemy and securing of the vital battalion objective. Captain Topper’s gallant leadership, steadfast devotion to duty and notable tactical skill reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Army.