The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Corporal Joe C. Blansett (ASN: RA-18351921), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Headquarters and Headquarters, 2d Medical Detachment, (then 2d Reconnaissance Company), 2d Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 20 September 1951 in the vicinity of Satae-ri, Korea. On this date Corporal Blansett’s unit was attacked by a fanatically determined enemy force with small arms and automatic weapons fire supported by mortars. The enemy was attempting to flank the unit’s position. During the ensuing action when a machine gun position in his sector was knocked out, Corporal Blansett, with complete disregard for his personal safety, left his own bunker to administer aid to members of the gun crew. Then in the face of advancing hostile forces, he manned the idle machine gun that was in a critical defense position and inflicted numerous casualties upon the enemy. His dauntless courage and selfless devotion to comrades were an inspiration to all who witnessed his heroic act and were highly responsible for repulsing the hostile attack. The gallantry in action displayed by Corporal Blansett on this occasion reflects great credit upon himself and the military service.