The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Sergeant First Class George W. Wickham (ASN: RA-6667428), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company M, 3d Battalion, 7th Infantry Regiment, 3d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy in Korea. On 2 June 1951, during the crossing of the Hant’an River near Chiktan, Korea, Sergeant Wickham was leading his section of heavy machine guns in the attack. To best support the leading elements, it was necessary to displace forward across an open field offering neither cover nor concealment from the grazing enemy fire. Sergeant Wickham, realizing the grave danger but also knowing that his present position rendered ineffective fire support, fearlessly moved forward urging his men to follow. Being a primary target as he led the section across the perilous area, Sergeant Wickham was almost immediately wounded, but ignoring his injury, he succeeded in placing his guns and directing their fire. Not until the success of the attack was assured did he accept treatment for his painful wound. Sergeant Wickham’s gallantry, superb leadership, and perseverance reflects the highest credit upon himself and the military service.