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 Private First Class Edward Arthur Clapp, United States Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United Nations while serving with Company B, First Battalion, Fifth Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces near Inje, Korea, on 17 June 1951. Brutal crossfire from three machine-gun positions emplaced on commanding ground rained down on Private Clapp’s platoon, inflicting numerous casualties. Although his assistant gunner was wounded and all ammunition carriers were assisting in evacuating the wounded, Private Clapp remained at his post and fearlessly continued to man his machine-gun, delivering point-blank fire into the enemy positions. When the platoon initiated a limited withdrawal, Private Class selflessly remained behind to provide protective fire for the platoon. He maintained his magnificent stand until the last man had safely cleared the area and then, struggling with his heavy weapon to deny its use to the enemy, he made his way to his unit. Private Clapp’s intrepid actions and consummate devotion to duty reflect the highest credit on himself and uphold the esteemed traditions of the military service.