The President of the United States of America, under the provisions of the Act of Congress approved July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Private First Class Marion Dennis Hoover (ASN: US-52083023), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United Nations while serving a Heavy Weapons Company of the 17th Infantry Regiment, 7th Infantry Division. Private First Class Hoover distinguished himself by extraordinary heroism in action against enemy aggressor forces in the vicinity of Chup’a-ri, Korea, on 3 September 1951. In the pre-dawn darkness, Private First Class Hoover, acting as a security guard in a forward area, observed a large hostile force moving into position to attack the friendly perimeter. Immediately, he alerted members of his platoon and then returned to his position to delay the enemy troops. As the attackers came swarming up the slope, Private Hoover opened fire. His deadly accuracy slowed the enemy attack and enabled his comrade to organize and consolidate their positions, thereby eliminating the advantage of surprise sought by the hostile forces. As the attack intensified, Private Hoover was wounded, but despite the pain he suffered, he remained in his forward position, pouring heavy fire into the ranks of the charging enemy. The tremendous pressure being exerted by the hostile troops forced the friendly platoon to withdraw to higher ground, but Private Hoover voluntarily remained behind to provide covering fire for his comrades. When the area was recaptured by the friendly troops several hours later, Private Hoover was found dead in his position surrounded by the lifeless bodies of seven enemy soldiers. His self-sacrifice and great fighting spirit prevented numerous friendly casualties and so inspired his comrades that they completely routed the hostile force from the area. The extraordinary heroism displayed by Private First Class Hoover on this occasion reflects the greatest credit on himself and is in keeping with the high traditions of the military service.