The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star to First Lieutenant Charles T. Hinman (MCSN: 0-34355), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while attached to Battery H, Third Battalion, Eleventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), and serving as a Forward Observer of an infantry platoon, in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 10 February 1951. Proceeding with his platoon on an independent mission along a narrow, uncovered trail when a deeply entrenched, well-camouflaged enemy attacked from commanding ground less than 100 yards from his sector, First Lieutenant Hinman continually exposed himself to the savage automatic weapons fire to gain a more advantageous position for directing artillery fire. With his platoon leader seriously wounded during the furious encounter, he immediately assumed command and skillfully deployed his men and directed their fire against the heavily fortified emplacements. Painfully wounded in the thigh and leg, he staunchly refused to be evacuated and continued to supervise the platoon and to give instructions for the placement of artillery fire. His forceful and aggressive leadership, bold tactics and inspiring courage throughout the intensive action were contributing factors in the success achieved by his company and reflect the highest credit upon First Lieutenant Hinman and the United States Naval Service.