The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Corporal Gerald L. Distel (MCSN: 661210), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving with an Intelligence Section attached to Headquarters and Service Company, Third Battalion, First Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 11 March 1951. Volunteering to act as a radioman for the assaulting platoon during an attack on a strongly defended enemy position, Corporal Distel fearlessly advanced with the heavy radio over precipitous terrain swept by withering enemy automatic-weapons and small-arms fire to reach the platoon. Remaining in an exposed position, he calmly transmitted vital messages to the company commander and directed the fire of supporting arms. Observing a wounded Marine lying in an exposed position, he unhesitatingly rushed forward, still carrying his radio, through heavy enemy fire to assist in removing the stricken man to safety. By his inspiring initiative, marked courage and selfless devotion to duty, Corporal Distel contributed materially to the successful seizure of the position and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.