The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Sergeant Charles L. Edwards (MCSN: 1205565), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while attached to the First Air and Naval Gunfire Company, Fleet Marine Force, Pacific, and serving as a Naval Gunfire Spotter with a Shore Fire Control Party of the East Coast Island Defense Unit in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 23 April 1953. Although painfully wounded by flying shrapnel when a direct hit was received on the observation post, causing four other casualties and destroying all communications, Sergeant Edwards carried the most seriously wounded to cover and administered first aid. Realizing one of the casualties required immediate medical treatment, he fearlessly ran approximately 600 yards through enemy fire to a friendly bunker and re-established communications with his headquarters, arranging for the evacuation of his wounded comrade. Despite the intense enemy fire, he remained at his radio throughout the bombardment to keep his commander fully informed of the situation. By his fortitude, courageous initiative and selfless efforts in behalf of others, Sergeant Edwards contributed immeasurably to the saving of the life of the wounded Marine and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.