The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class Charles W. Laird, Jr. (MCSN: 567039), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving with Headquarters and Service Company, First Battalion, Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 2 December 1950. When hostile machine gun fire from a well-entrenched position pinned down his company during an attack, Private First Class Laird bravely volunteered to seek out and destroy the enemy strongpoint. Boldly attacking the gun emplacement in the face of direct hostile fire, he killed eleven of the enemy with his rifle and hand grenades, thereby directly aiding his company in continuing the advance. By his marked courage, aggressive fighting spirit and unswerving devotion to duty, Private First Class Laird served to inspire all who observed him and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.