The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star (Army Award) to Master Sergeant Leonard R. Young (MCSN: 254876), United States Marine Corps, for gallantry in action against an armed enemy while serving with Company B, First Battalion, Fifth Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces four and one-half miles west of Yongsan, Korea, on 5 September 1950. On this date, B Company had attacked and seized a hill in the forenoon and were ordered to organize a hasty defense. The hill although occupied by B Company, was under enfilading fire from automatic weapons emplaced on high ground to the front and flanks. At 1430 hours the enemy launched a strong counterattack supported by mortars, high velocity weapons, artillery and tanks. Sergeant Young, First Sergeant of B Company, with utter disregard for his own personal safety and while exposed to a withering fire, walked upright back and forth along the length of the defense line scouting out and placing men in advantageous firing positions, directing their fire for maximum effectiveness, giving encouragement to the men and aid to the wounded. During the latter part of the counterattack, Sergeant Young was critically wounded but remained in action directing men back to their positions in order that front line fire power could be maintained. His actions directly assisted in repulsing the counterattack with heavy enemy losses. His fearless display of calm courage served as a source of inspiration to the men of the Company and his heroic action reflects great credit on himself and the naval service.