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 [then Private First Class] Donald B. Johnson (ASN: RA-11225232), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company B, 1st Battalion, 15th Infantry Regiment, 3d Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in Korea. On 5 February 1952, while occupying an outpost known as “O.P. Kelly” near Koyangdae, Korea, the 3d Platoon of Company B, 1st Battalion, was subjected to an intense enemy artillery barrage closely followed by a reinforced company size assault. When the platoon was ordered to withdraw in the face of the overwhelming hostile force, Corporal Johnson, a machine gunner, volunteered to remain at his position to cover the withdrawal, even though he had previously been wounded. He continued firing his weapon relentlessly at the onrushing foe until the enemy reached and jumped into the trench occupied by himself, the platoon leader and another soldier. The close, intense enemy fire wounded all three of the men, injuring the platoon leader so severely that he was unable to walk. Corporal Johnson and his comrade, disregarding the plea of the wounded man to seek safety for themselves and leave him there, removed the platoon leader from the trench into a shell crater. Staying in the crater until darkness fell, Corporal Johnson and his comrade then carried the wounded man down the treacherous slope to the base of the hill. Unable to carry him any further, Corporal Johnson sent his comrade back to friendly lines for assistance while he remained with the platoon leader until aid arrived. Only after seeing that the wounded man was safely evacuated would Corporal Johnson consent to medical attention for himself. The outstanding courage and loyalty he displayed were instrumental in his platoon’s safe withdrawal and in saving the life of his platoon leader. Corporal Johnson’s gallantry reflects the highest credit upon himself and the military service.