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) Cecil C. Waggoner (ASN: 0-2017479), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company H, 23d Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy on 9 March 1951, at Hagaru-ri, Korea. During an attack by the 2d Battalion, the 81-mm. mortar platoon of Company H received heavy enemy counter-battery fire and suffered numerous casualties to key personnel. Captain Waggoner immediately left the battalion observation post and fearlessly proceeded through the heavy enemy fire to the position of his mortar platoon. Upon arriving there, he directed the evacuation of the wounded and then led the platoon to more tenable positions. Although struck by fragments from enemy mortar shells, he displayed a complete disregard for his personal safety by remaining at the now position until he had reorganized the platoon. As a result of his gallant action, the mortar platoon was able to furnish uninterrupted mortar support to the assault elements. The gallantry displayed by Captain Waggoner reflects great credit upon himself and upholds the highest traditions of the Military Service of the United States.