The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Sergeant First Class Claude D. Bass (ASN: US-53014685), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company F, 38th Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy on 10 October 1951 in the vicinity of Imokchong, Korea. On that date Sergeant Bass led his platoon in an attack on well fortified enemy positions on Hill 800, during the battle for Heartbreak Ridge. Sergeant Bass, advancing with the forward elements of the platoon, encouraged his men to hold their front and return maximum fire while he inspired them with his own bravery and daring. After hours of fierce fighting his unit succeeded in reaching the crest of the hill, but was immediately counterattacked by a numerically superior enemy force and forced to withdraw. Sergeant Bass skillfully directed his men in the withdrawal and, as they were pulling back, he realized that a seriously wounded man had been left behind. Unhesitatingly and without thought for his personal safety, Sergeant Bass returned over the hazardous terrain to recover the wounded man. Upon reaching his wounded comrade, he carried him over the fire-swept terrain to safety. Then securing his weapon he rejoined his men in repelling the enemy onslaught. Sergeant Bass’s valor was outstanding on the field of battle where bravery was common and will live forever in the hearts of his comrades.