The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star (Army Award) to Technical Sergeant Paul A. Hodge (MCSN: 265977), United States Marine Corps, for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving with Company A, First Battalion, Fifth Marines, First Provisional Marine Brigade), in action against enemy aggressor forces near Yongsan, Korea on 18 August 1950. Sergeant Hodge, company gunnery sergeant, was in a defensive position when he suffered a severe wound of the thigh during an enemy counterattack. Despite this wound, and the intense automatic rifle fire and hand grenade volleys, Sergeant Hodge, with complete disregard of his wound, carried a message to a platoon leader. He then moved to a position on higher ground from which he was able to effectively throw hand grenades and deliver rifle fire against the enemy. Not until the counterattack had been repulsed and the company had seized its objective did Sergeant Hodge report his wound and accept evacuation. His heroic actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.