The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Second Lieutenant Charles T. Hinman (MCSN: 0-34355), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as an Artillery Forward Observer of Battery F, Second Battalion, Eleventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division in action against enemy Japanese forces on Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands on 16 April 1945. Attached to an Army infantry battalion attacking Kakazu Ridge when the enemy launched a determined counter attack driving the infantry back to the reverse slope of a smaller ridge and threatening a serious break through, Second Lieutenant Hinman sent his Forward Observation Team with the infantry and, heedless of the onrushing enemy and their heavy small arms and mortar fire, remained alone on the forward slope of the ridge to observe and direct artillery fire. L By his skillful adjustment of fire, Second Lieutenant Hinman contributed materially to breaking up the counter attack and repulsing the enemy. His outstanding courage and devotion to duty was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Sponsored by:
Awards Received
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Silver Star
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Silver Star
Service:
United States Marine CorpsRank:
First LieutenantBatallion:
3d BattalionRegiment:
11th MarinesDivision:
1st Marine Division (Rein.)Action Date:
February 10, 1951
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.