The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Second Lieutenant Robert L. Beechner (MCSN: 0-55298), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as an Infantry Platoon Commander of Company B, First Battalion, Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on the night of 12 – 13 October 1952. Although painfully wounded when the platoon was subjected to intense hostile machine gun and automatic weapons rifle fire during a night attack against an enemy strong point well forward of the main line of resistance, Second Lieutenant Beechner repeatedly exposed himself to the hostile fire and moved about the area in total darkness in an effort to reorganize the platoon. Refusing medical attention for himself, he supervised the evacuation of other casualties and directed friendly mortar and artillery fire on the enemy position. When the unit was pinned down by devastating hostile machine gun fire while he was again leading his men in the attack on the enemy strong point, he continued to direct and encourage his men until reinforcements arrived. During the platoon’s withdrawal to friendly lines, he remained at the rear to ensure the safe return of his men, consenting to treatment and evacuation for himself only after the others had reached safety. By his outstanding courage, expert leadership and resolute determination, Second Lieutenant Beechner served to inspire all who observed him and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.