The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Corporal Andrew Emil Vollo (MCSN: 658342), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving as a 80-mm. Mortar Squad Leader in Company H, Third Battalion, First Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 28 November 1950. When the rifle platoon to which he was attached was pinned down by heavy enemy small arms, machine gun and mortar fire while crossing an open, flat area in an attack against a well-entrenched enemy force holding the high ground near Hagaru-ri, Corporal Vollo voluntarily exposed himself to the heavy hostile fire to direct and control effective mortar fire on enemy positions, thereby greatly aiding the platoon in advancing across the open terrain. Observing that the Platoon Corpsman was injured, he made numerous trips across the fire-swept area and carried wounded Marines back to the injured Corpsman for medical attention. During a nighttime penetration of some of his company’s positions by hostile elements, he directed and controlled accurate and effective fire upon the enemy until his supply of ammunition was exhausted. Ignoring the precariousness of his position, he immediately manned a machine gun and, from an unprotected area, inflicted heavy casualties on the enemy until fatally wounded. By his outstanding courage, daring initiative and steadfast devotion to duty, Corporal Vollo contributed materially to the success of his platoon’s mission, thereby upholding the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.