The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Corporal Charles L. Keyes (MCSN: 669930), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as a Squad Leader of Company H, Third Battalion, First Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 14 June 1951. Although severely wounded while leading his squad through a hail of hostile small arms, automatic weapons and grenade fire in the attack against a knoll which was well defended by a strong enemy force, Corporal Keyes refused to be evacuated and continued to press the assault until the hostile position was overrun. After reorganizing the squad, he assured himself that all other wounded had been treated before allowing himself to be evacuated. By his outstanding courage, leadership and selfless devotion to duty, Corporal Keyes served to inspire all who observed him and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.