The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant Earl B. Musser, Jr. (MCSN: 0-49847), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as a Rifle Platoon Commander of Company D, Second Battalion, Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 17 June 1951. When the platoon he was leading on a reconnaissance mission forward of friendly lines was pinned down by devastating enemy mortar and artillery fire, First Lieutenant Musser, realizing that the forward element of the platoon had suffered heavy casualties, courageously moved forward through the heavy enemy fire to direct the evacuation of the wounded to safety. Although seriously wounded by shrapnel and having great difficulty in breathing, he refused to accept medical attention and remained in the exposed area to direct the removal of the casualties until he lapsed into unconsciousness. By his exceptional fortitude, leadership and unswerving devotion to duty, First Lieutenant Musser served to inspire all who observed him and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.