The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class Charles B. Magana (MCSN: 1053534), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as a Cannoneer of Battery D, Second Battalion, Eleventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces near Hagaru-ri, Korea, on 4 December 1950. Although not on duty when an enemy mortar shell landed in the gun pit, killing or wounding all personnel and starting a fire which threatened one hundred rounds of high-explosive ammunition stored in an adjacent pit, Private First Class Magana immediately emerged from his tent and, despite the danger from exploding ammunition and continued enemy mortar fire, voluntarily entered the pit in his bare feet and proceeded to smother the fire with his parka. By his daring initiative, prompt action and cool courage in the face of grave danger, Private First Class Magana prevented serious injury to the remaining men and materiel of his organization and permitted his battery to keep its gun in action during a critical phase of the operation. His bold initiative and personal heroism were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.