The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Corporal Charles M. Strickland (MCSN: 613514), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as a Squad Leader in a Rifle Platoon of Company D, Second Battalion, Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 3 November 1950. When his company was ordered to seize and occupy an enemy-held hill during the movement of his battalion from Hamhung to Hagaru-ri, Corporal Strickland promptly moved his squad into the foremost position on Hill 698 and, constantly exposing himself to the enemy’s intense fire, succeeded in maneuvering his men into covered and concealed positions. Although twice painfully wounded during the action, he staunchly refused to be evacuated and, remaining in position under concentrated hostile machine gun fire, calmly directed the fire of his squad against the counterattacking force, at the same time firing his rifle and throwing hand grenades. By his daring and aggressive leadership, indomitable fighting spirit and courageously determination in the face of heavy odds, Corporal Strickland served as an inspiration to all who observed him and contributed to the successful accomplishment of the assigned mission. His heroic efforts were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.