The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class Billie R. Troutman (MCSN: 1216147), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving with Company C, First Battalion, Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 6 October 1952. Serving as an automatic rifleman, on a combat outpost, Private First Class Troutman displayed outstanding courage, initiative and devotion to duty. When the enemy launched a determined infantry assault, accompanied by a devastating barrage of mortar and artillery fire, he found that only he and one other Marine were left to defend the left flank of the position. With complete disregard for his personal safety, he moved forward to an exposed position where he delivered deadly fire on the advancing enemy force. As the attackers entered the trenchline and attempted to overrun the position, he unhesitatingly moved to more advantageous positions and continued to sweep the enemy with killing fire until they were forced to abandon their attack. Private First Class Troutman’s stamina and aggressiveness served as an inspiration to all who observed him and his gallant and courageous actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.