The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Corporal Willis Neal (ASN: RA-182773), United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company C, 17th Infantry Regiment, 7th Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy near Kuram, Korea, on 19 February, 1951. Corporal Neal was a part of the unit attacking the enemy well entrenched on high ground near Kuram. During the actual assault, the lead squad were pinned down by grenades, automatic weapons and small arms fire. Realizing the seriousness of the situation, Corporal Neal, with complete disregard for his personal safety, led his squad in a counter-attack. He personally destroyed the key positions which had held up the advance and was wounded in the accomplishment of his mission. The gallantry displayed by Corporal Neal on this occasion reflects great credit on himself and the military service.