The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Corporal Dean Donald Charles (MCSN: 1083016), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as a Rifle Squad Leader of Company H, Third Battalion, Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces south of Yudam-ni, Korea on 1 December 1950. When intense hostile small arms and automatic weapons fire halted his platoon en route to assault an enemy ridge, Corporal Charles deployed his men in advantageous positions from which he directed accurate fire and, braving the intense hostile barrage, called a light machine gun forward and spotted its fire on the enemy. Undaunted by the personal risk involved, he moved fearlessly from man to man encouraging each and directing their fire. Unable to hold his position when the enemy threatened to encircle the platoon, he boldly remained behind to cover the rear guard while the platoon withdrew to new locations. While making a final check to make certain that all the wounded had been moved to safety, he was mortally wounded by hostile fire. His inspiring leadership, unselfish initiative and heroic efforts were contributing factors in the successful withdrawal of his platoon and reflect great credit upon Corporal Charles and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.