The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class Gilbert D. Haugan (MCSN: 1164513), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as a Machine Gunner of Company F, Second Battalion, First Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 13 June 1952. During an attack by a numerically superior enemy force, Private First Class Haugan courageously exposed himself to intense enemy artillery, mortar and small arms fire to deliver accurate and effective machine gun fire, killing twenty and wounding countless enemy troops. Although thrown from his position by the concussion of a hostile mortar shell, he bravely crawled back to his gun and resumed firing. By his skill, determination and selfless devotion to duty, Private First Class Haugan was greatly instrumental in repelling the enemy attack. His exemplary courage and gallant spirit of self-sacrifice were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.