The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Sergeant Clarence Wilkins, Jr. (MCSN: 628288), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as a Squad Leader of Company I, Third Battalion, Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 7 October 1952. Although struck down by enemy fire during the early phases of an assault to retake an outpost that had been previously overrun by the enemy, Sergeant Wilkins quickly regained his feet and continued in the attack. Painfully wounded again as he reached the crest of the enemy hill, he refused medical treatment and fearlessly moved about the squad’s zone of action, effectively directing his men until the enemy had been driven back from the position. Skillfully reorganizing his men, he placed them in vantage positions to ward off further hostile attacks and, upon completion of the reorganization, submitted himself to medical aid and subsequent evacuation to the rear area medical unit. By his aggressive fighting spirit, marked fortitude and courageous initiative, Sergeant Wilkins served to inspire all who observed him and contributed materially to the success of the platoon’s mission, thereby upholding the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.