The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant (Infantry) Donald F. Darnell (ASN: 0-1338065), United States Army, for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving with Company C, 1st Battalion, 27th Infantry Regiment, 25th Infantry Division in Korea. On 20 September 1950 during an attack on enemy positions located on a hill near Chingdong-ni, Korea, Lieutenant Darnell courageously braved the constant hostile barrage of grenades, small arms, and mortar fire to lead his company. Although wounded in the arm by grenade fragments, he remained with the forward elements of his company to encourage his men and control the fire of his unit until the objective was taken. Lieutenant Darnell’s outstanding courage and exemplary leadership reflect great credit on himself and are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service.