The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private First Class Rudolph M. Canales (ASN: RA-16258536), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company D, 1st Battalion, 19th Infantry Regiment, 24th Infantry Division, on 16 July 1950, near the Kum River, Korea. After the Mortar Platoon had been forced to retire from the hill on which their positions had been located, Private First Class Canales fought savagely with a pistol and carbine in the effort which resulted in its recapture. After the position had been reestablished, he assumed the duties of first gunner on a mortar and poured deadly fire on the enemy. During the firing, two machine guns were destroyed and many of the enemy killed. Largely as a result of this mortar fire, the Battalion was able to withdraw, when their position was overrun, in an orderly fashion. By his example and devotion to duty, Private First Class Canales brought great credit to himself and the military service.