The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting a Second Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Third Award of the Silver Star to Captain (Infantry), [then First Lieutenant] Aaron C. Adkins (ASN: 0-60512), United States Army, for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving as Commanding Officer, Company L, 8th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division, in action on 26 May 1951, near Tongduchon-ni, Korea. As the company was attacking a rugged hill during a driving rain, it was halted by intense enemy fire from the midst-shrouded hillside. Realizing that the success of the mission depended on bold, aggressive action, Captain Adkins voluntarily advanced through a hail of enemy fire, to the position of the leading elements of his command. Here he advanced in front of the rifle positions, encouraging his men, and pointing out targets for them. Although exposed to small arms and mortar fire, he continued his personal reconnaissance. Captain Adkins’ intrepidity encouraged his troops to such a degree that, when given the order to resume the attack, they swept forward to achieve their objective. His conspicuous gallantry reflects great credit upon himself and the military service.

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 First Lieutenant (Infantry) Aaron C. Adkins (ASN: 0-60512), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company L, 8th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division, in action against the enemy on 13 March 1951 near Panggok, Korea. While leading his company in attack against the enemy in the vicinity of Panggok, Lieutenant Adkins realized that the final objective, Hill 641, would be a difficult task, due to rough, rocky and high terrain that offered the enemy an excellent defensive position. Lieutenant Adkins unhesitatingly exposed himself to enemy observation and fire as he remained forward with the assault elements to direct the attacking and supporting weapons. Through his courageous and skillful leadership considerable hostile equipment was rendered ineffective, numerous enemy were killed and captured, and the objective was secured in a minimum amount of time. Lieutenant Adkins’ gallantry and outstanding leadership reflect great credit upon himself and are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service.