The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class Bernard J. Hourtienne (MCSN: 1206840), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as a member of Company F, Second Battalion, Fifth Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 17 August 1952. When the patrol sustained heavy casualties after it was ambushed by intense enemy mortar and small arms fire and was pinned down in an exposed area, Private First Class Hourtienne unhesitatingly maneuvered toward a hostile machine gun position to draw the enemy’s fire. Undeterred by the opposition, he courageously stormed the position, killing or wounding the entire machine gun crew. Although painfully wounded during this heroic act, he succeeded in drawing the enemy’s fire, thereby permitting the remaining members of the patrol to seek cover. By his indomitable fighting spirit, resourceful initiative and selfless efforts in behalf of others, Private First Class Hourtienne served to inspire all who observed him and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.