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), [then Sergeant First Class] Billy E. Bransford (ASN: 0-2262293), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Headquarters Company, 38th Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 24 September 1950, near Tongson, Korea. Serving as a member of an anti-tank and mine platoon, Lieu8tenant Bransford participated in a tank-infantry attack against bitterly defended enemy strong points. The lead tank of the column was halted by mines in the road. Lieutenant Bransford and his men proceeded to remove the mines when the enemy placed them under heavy machine gun and small arms fire, forcing his men to take cover. Despite the incessant fire on the road, Lieutenant Bransford voluntarily continued to remove mines. One of Lieutenant Bransford’s men rallied after seeing him remove the mines and came to his aid. A short time later the man was wounded and Lieutenant Bransford picked him up and carried him to a place of safety. His courageous action in removing mines enabled the unit to resume the advance and accomplish its mission with a minimum loss of men and equipment. The gallantry displayed by Lieutenant Bransford reflects great credit upon himself and the military service.