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 Willard P. Wallgren (ASN: US-55065781), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company E, 23d Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 24 September 1951 in the vicinity of Samtae-dong, Korea. On that date Private Wallgren was a member of a unit which was withdrawing to more advantageous positions. During this action Private Wallgren observed a wounded man lying in a position under hostile fire. With complete disregard for his personal safety, he advanced over the hazardous terrain to administer aid to the wounded man. In the course of this act, Private Wallgren was cut off from his unit by a hostile maneuver but he tenaciously remained with his wounded comrade. Being physically incapable of carrying the paralyzed man, Private Wallgren returned over the enemy infested area to the friendly units and after obtaining a litter team, he successfully directed them in the evacuation of his wounded comrade. As a result of his valiant efforts a man’s life was saved. The gallantry in action displayed by Private Wallgren on this occasion reflects great credit upon himself and the military service.