The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Sergeant Edsel E. Edson (MCSN: 1052564), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as a Fire Team Leader of Company B, First Battalion, First Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on the night of 27 – 28 October 1950. Although sustaining multiple wounds from the first burst of fire when the company was subjected to close range small arms, automatic weapons and grenade fire during a night attack, Sergeant Edson refused to be evacuated and continued to expose himself to the hostile fire to direct his squad in the delivery of covering fire for the maneuver of the other squads and for the evacuation of the wounded. By his exceptional fortitude, daring initiative and indomitable fighting spirit despite painful wounds, Sergeant Edson served to inspire all who observed him and upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service.