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) Willis Dodge Cronkhite, Jr. (ASN: 0-28269), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company F, 2d Battalion, 65th Infantry Regiment, 3d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy in Korea. On the morning of 28 October 1952, Company F, 2d Battalion, commanded by Captain Cronkhite, attacked an enemy held position, “Jackson Heights”, in the vicinity of Kangong-Ni, Korea. Captain Cronkhite’s company came under intense hostile mortar and artillery fire, causing elements of the squads to become separated and intermingled. With complete disregard for his personal safety, he moved through the hail of fire and reorganized his company. He then continued to direct his company in the attack. As the company neared the crest of the hill, the mortar fire increased and enemy machine guns swept the approaches to the objective. Braving the enemy’s concentrated fire, Captain Cronkhite personally led his men forward in the assault. In the ensuing action, Company F completely overran the enemy’s positions and seized the objective. Although still harassed by small arms fire, he continued to move among his men, directing their effective reorganization on the position and overseeing the immediate re-supply of ammunition. Captain Cronkhite’s outstanding gallantry and devotion to duty reflects great credit upon himself and the military service.