The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Second Lieutenant Kenneth Andrew Bott, Sr. (MCSN: 0-50151), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Commander of an 88-mm. Mortar Section of Weapons Company, Third Battalion, First Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea, on 2 November 1950. Suddenly stopped by an enemy roadblock and subjected to heavy and accurate small-arms, machine-gun and grenade fire from the high ground overlooking the road while proceeding in a motorized patrol with his unit, Second Lieutenant Bott realized immediately that communications with rear elements were lost and that it would be impossible to place effective fire on the enemy or to extricate the column from the narrow gorge without abandoning equipment and suffering a heavy toll in casualties and, fearlessly risking his life, made his way to the rearmost jeep of the patrol. After successfully turning the jeep around, he and his driver proceeded to run the gauntlet of intense fire and, although many bullets struck the jeep and one punctured a tire, succeeded in reaching his battalion command post to report the ambush. Undaunted by serious wounds sustained while voluntarily guiding the relieving column forward, he boldly continued to lead the column, skillfully describing the disposition of the patrol and of the enemy while continuing his valiant efforts. By his daring initiative, personal courage and grave concern for others at great risk to his own life, Second Lieutenant Bott contributed materially to the successful rescue and withdrawal of the patrol, thereby upholding the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.