The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Hospitalman Gerald L. Hodges (NSN: 2608567), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with a Marine Infantry Company of the FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 3 July 1952. Serving as a Corpsman, Hospitalman Hodges displayed exceptional heroism when the unit was assaulting heavily fortified enemy positions. Wounded in the early stage of the attack he refused evacuation and continued to treat the other casualties. Many times during the engagement, he climbed up the hill to the leading platoon in full view of the enemy to continue treating the wounded and aid in their evacuation. On return trips he carried much needed ammunition to machine gun positions. Wounded again he once more refused evacuation and continued to treat the other casualties. Only when the platoon had withdrawn to a forward aid station did he submit to treatment. Hospitalman Hodges’ extreme courage under fire and initiative were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.