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 Robert D. Mason (ASN: US-55103949), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company B, 1st Battalion, 5th Regimental Combat Team, 24th Infantry Division, near Pangdangdong-ni, Korea, on 13 October 1951. As his platoon attacked firmly entrenched forces, its members were pinned down by devastating automatic weapons and small arms fire from a strategically placed enemy bunker. Corporal Mason, with utter disregard for his own safety, exposed himself to the murderous fire as he maneuvered around the hill to a point behind the enemy emplacement. Firing with deadly accuracy from this position, he destroyed the enemy strongpoint single-handedly, thus enabling his comrades to continue the assault and ultimately secure the objective. Corporal Mason’s courageous action, aggressive initiative and selfless devotion to duty reflect the highest credit on himself and the United States Infantry.