The President of the United States of America, under the provisions of the Act of Congress approved July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Colonel (Infantry) Herbert Butler Powell (ASN: 0-16684), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United Nations while serving as Commanding Officer of the 17th Infantry Regiment, 7th Infantry Division. Colonel Powell distinguished himself by extraordinary heroism in action against enemy aggressor forces near Pung-san, Korea, during the period from 1 through 21 November 1950. Colonel Powell’s unit was viciously assaulted near Pung-san by a numerically superior force which threatened penetration of the leading elements. In the face of devastating hostile fire, Colonel Powell went forward and directed the employment of elements of his command and repulsed the attack. Later, while approaching Pincho-ri, a reconnaissance patrol detected an ambush in a narrow defile which the armored spearhead had entered. Although suffering from a severe leg injury sustained while organizing his men for counterattack and which was aggravated by the bitter cold weather, Colonel Powell scorning the withering barrage of fire, moved painfully through the impact area and, miraculously escaping death, reached the most forward elements of his command and directed intense supporting fire which rapidly dislodged the stubborn foe. Colonel Powell continued close personal liaison with forward echelons, fearlessly traveling hundreds of miles over rugged terrain, frequently through enemy sniper fire, to direct patrolling and reorganization in preparation for a major attack across the Ungi River. The extraordinary heroism displayed by Colonel Powell on this occasion reflects the greatest credit on himself and is in keeping with the high traditions of the military service.