The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class Kenneth W. Navo (MCSN: 650317), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as a Fire Team Leader of Company A, First Battalion, First Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 8 December 1950. When his squad leader became a casualty while participating in an assault against a series of hostile strong points, Private First Class Navo unhesitatingly assumed command of the unit and skillfully maneuvered the group through the heavy enemy fire. During the final attack on the hostile position, he exposed himself to devastating automatic weapons fire to move from bunker to bunker, killing the hostile occupants and shouting words of encouragement to his men. By his courageous leadership, daring initiative and unswerving devotion to duty, Private First Class Navo aided immeasurably to routing the enemy from the strategic positions and served to inspire all who observed him, thereby upholding the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.