The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Staff Sergeant Earle J. Payne (MCSN: 322338), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as a Platoon Sergeant of Company C, First Battalion, Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea from 1 November to 3 December 1950. With his company disposed at an outpost south of Yudam-ni, and subjected to continuous attack by numerically superior hostile forces on 28 November, Staff Sergeant Payne continually exposed himself to the enemy’s intense small arms and automatic weapons fire to direct and control the deadly return fire of his platoon. When communications failed and it became apparent that artillery and other fire support could not be brought to bear, he voluntarily manned an exposed machine gun position, delivering accurate fire to assist in neutralizing the position and to inflict heavy casualties among the enemy. By his daring initiative, inspiring leadership and fearless tactics, Staff Sergeant Payne contributed materially to the successful defense of the outpost and to the success achieved by his company. His cool courage throughout this period of intensive action was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.