The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Sergeant Frederick Benjamin Thompson (MCSN: 1111936), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as a Squad Leader of Company A, First Battalion, First Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 17 September 1951. Assigned to lead his unit against a key enemy strong point atop a fortified hill, Sergeant Thompson courageously charged forward and spearheaded a vicious assault on numerous hostile emplacements. Although painfully wounded, he succeeded in overrunning the positions and in reaching the top of the hill and, while reorganizing his squad and directing effective fire on the enemy, was struck by hostile fire and fell mortally wounded. His cool leadership, personal courage and indomitable fighting spirit were contributing factors in the success of his company and served to inspire all who observed him, thereby reflecting great credit upon Sergeant Thompson and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.