The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Second Lieutenant Donald Charles Colburn (MCSN: 0-56599), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as a Platoon Commander of Company E, Second Battalion, Fifth Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 29 March 1953. With the enemy holding the crest of a vital outpost position, Second Lieutenant Colburn led his platoon in a devastating assault against the hostile forces and, when the unit had secured the objective, dauntlessly exposed himself to the vicious enemy barrage of mortar fire to organize a sound defensive position and to move among his men and lend encouragement during the ensuing battle. Volunteering to guide a relief company to the area, he unhesitatingly went back down the hill through the intense hostile fire to personally lead the new unit into position. While directing the relief company in protective cover for the new troops, he was struck by enemy shell fire and fell, mortally wounded. By his outstanding valor, indomitable fighting spirit and self-sacrificing devotion to duty, Second Lieutenant Colburn served to inspire all who observed him and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.