SILVER STAR CITATION: The Silver Star is awarded to Corporal Eugene L. Ottesen, US57513689, Infantry, Army of the United States, a member of Company G, 23d Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, who displayed gallantry in action against an armed enemy on 15 February 1951 in the vicinity of Chipyong-ni, Korea. Company G, under overwhelming enemy pressure, was forced to withdraw for a distance of approximately 400 yards, During the withdrawal, the gunner of Corporal Ottesen’s machine gun crew was wounded. Corporal Ottesen immediately took over the operation of the weapon and so deadly was his fire that three enemy onslaughts were hurled back with heavy losses. Disregarding the overwhelming odds against him, he held fast and continued to cover his company’s withdrawal until, under the sheer weight of numbers, his position was overrun. The gallantry and selfless devotion to duty displayed by Corporal Ottesen reflect great credit upon himself and the military service. Entered the military service from Minnesota.
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LISTED AS MISSING IN ACTION. HOME TOWN: ELLENDALE, MN.
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News Clipping:

"Corporal Eugene L. Otteson, 20, son of Mr. and Mrs. Clarence Otteson of New Richland and who was reported missing in action in Korea in February, has been awarded the Silver Star for gallantry in action. The medal was presented to his parents. It was awarded for his part in action against the enemy near Chipyong, Korea, on February 15, the day he was reported missing." - Austin Daily Herald (MN) - 8 October 1951

Eugene (US57513689), 23rd Regiment, 2nd Division, MIA, was declared dead. He was from New Richland, MN.