The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private Kenneth D. Westerman (ASN: RA-18297783), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company F, 23d Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy on 5 September 1951 near Changnyong, Korea. On that date his platoon had the mission of attacking a well-fortified enemy position. During the attack the platoon was subjected to heavy hostile small arms and machine gun fire and one of his comrades was wounded. Private Westerman immediately advanced through the heavy enemy fire, with utter disregard for his personal safety, to aid the wounded man. As he moved over the open terrain he was struck by enemy fire and was fatally wounded. The gallantry displayed by Private Westerman reflects the highest great upon himself is in keeping with the fine traditions of the military service.