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] Oscar R. Middlebrooks, United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company K, 38th Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy on 9 October 1951 in the vicinity of Mundung-ni, Korea. On this date, while attempting to assault fiercely held enemy positions on Hill 851, Company K met heavy resistance and was forced to withdraw for regrouping. During this withdrawal, Corporal Middlebrooks, a gunner on a 60-mm. mortar, voluntarily remained behind to cover the company, and fight a delaying action. Constantly exposing himself to intense enemy fire, he directed heavy and effective fire on hostile positions, inflicting numerous casualties upon the enemy. When friendly forces had regrouped, Corporal Middlebrooks rejoined his unit and participated in the second assault. Through his courageous and selfless actions, his unit was able to overrun the enemy emplacements and secure the objective. The gallantry in action and outstanding devotion to duty displayed by Corporal Middlebrooks were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service.