The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class Joseph K. Melican (ASN: RA-12327039), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company I, 3d Battalion, 15th Infantry Regiment, 3d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy in Korea. On the night of 24 November 1952, Company I, 3d Battalion, of which Private Melican was section leader of the 57-mm. Recoilless Section, was assigned the mission of holding and defending Hill 270, in the vicinity of Hak Tong-Ni, Korea. The enemy had subjected the friendly position to a three hour barrage. When the hostile forces attacked, the friendly line of defense was spread thin by the casualties sustained, causing their fire to be ineffective. The enemy advanced to within twenty-five yards from the friendly positions and were about to overrun them when Private Melican, fully aware of the danger involved, jumped from the trench and with his carbine and several grenades, met the assault head on. Fully exposed to intense hostile small arms and grenade fire, he fired his carbine and tossed grenades into the advancing enemy ranks. His surprising and courageous action so disorganized the attacking forces that he caused them to retreat. Although wounded by a concussion grenade, he refused to return for medical aid, but continued to pursue the routed foe until they had cleared the area. As a result of Private Melican’s heroism, the hill was retained and many casualties were inflicted upon the enemy. Private Melican’s outstanding gallantry and untiring devotion to duty reflects great credit upon himself and the military service.