The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Staff Sergeant Joseph S. Kassebaum (MCSN: 438299), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as a Platoon Sergeant of Company A, First Battalion, Fifth Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 3 February 1953. During a company-size raid against two strongly defended enemy hill positions, Staff Sergeant Kassebaum led the right flank of the attacking force across a rice paddy and up the slope of the hill through heavy enemy fire, deploying his units in order that the final assault could be effected. After receiving the order to advance, he stood erect in the face of heavy and intense enemy mortar, artillery and small arms fire and, from his exposed position, shouted words of encouragement to his comrades, urging them forward in the attack. Upon reaching the enemy trench line, which was still partially occupied by the enemy, he discovered a wounded Marine and immediately rendered first aid before calling for a Corpsman. Although painfully wounded while advancing through the trench and killing the enemy to protect his fallen comrade and the Corpsman, he continued to direct his men in the assault until evacuated. By his outstanding courage, leadership and indomitable fighting spirit, Staff Sergeant Kassebaum served to inspire all who observed him and contributed materially to the success of the mission, thereby upholding the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.