The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Staff Sergeant Albert B. O’Steen (MCSN: 567512), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as a Platoon Sergeant of Company I, Third Battalion, First Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 13 September 1951. During the platoon’s night attack on a heavily fortified hill position defended by a tenacious and determined enemy force, Staff Sergeant O’Steen repeatedly exposed himself to devastating hostile small arms, mortar and automatic weapons fire to assist in deploying the unit against successive enemy strong points. Although he sustained two painful wounds during the intensive action, he refused to seek cover or accept medical treatment. Charging forward through withering hostile fire at the head of an element of the platoon during the final assault, he bravely led his men in completely routing the entrenched enemy. By his courageous leadership, marked fortitude and aggressive fighting spirit, Staff Sergeant O’Steen served to inspire all who observed him and contributed immeasurably to the success of the attack, thereby upholding the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.