The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain (Infantry), [then First Lieutenant Rance E. Cotton (ASN: 0-1286249), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 27th Infantry Regiment, 25th Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy in Korea. On 21 September 1950, while on a mission to screen the left flank of the combat team near Chindong-ni, Korea, Captain Cotton deployed his platoon and led it up a slope. When heavy enemy machine gun and automatic weapons fire was encountered, he moved forward to observe the enemy and adjust mortar fire, and was seriously wounded, when the radio was shot out of his hands. Despite his painful wound, he continued to direct the fire of his platoon. Observing two wounded soldiers, he assisted them from the area and was wounded again, but continued to lead his platoon in displacement from the area. Captain Cotton’s conspicuous bravery, notable courage and exemplary leadership are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service.