The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Corporal Daniel Joseph Ballem (MCSN: 1033442), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as a Fire Team Leader of Company B, First Battalion, Fifth Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 17 June 1951. With his platoon pinned down and suffering numerous casualties under heavy fire from a well-fortified hostile position during an assault against an enemy position near Inje, Corporal Ballem immediately joined his platoon leader in a daring attempt to neutralize the hostile weapons, permit the continuation of the attack and cover the evacuation of the numerous casualties. Dashing through a hail of machine gun and grenade fire, he reached the bunker and hurled several grenades through the aperture before he fell mortally wounded. His cool daring, personal courage and indomitable fighting spirit served to inspire all who observed him and reflect the highest credit upon Corporal Ballem and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.