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 Mike Saroian (ASN: RA-19389999), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company C, 38th Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 11 and 12 September 1951 in the vicinity of Taeusan, Korea. On that date, during an attack on a heavily fortified enemy-held hill, it became necessary for the mortars to provide close support to the advancing riflemen. Realizing this, Private Saroian, mortar gunner, with utter disregard for his own safety, voluntarily moved his mortar to the ridge line where he could better observe the enemy position. Although under intense hostile small arms fire, he remained in this position, inflicting numerous casualties upon the enemy. His courage and cool behavior were an inspiration to the entire unit and were the deciding factors in securing the objective. During this courageous action Private Saroian was fatally wounded by enemy mortar fire. The gallantry in action and self-sacrificing devotion to duty displayed by Private Saroian reflects great credit upon himself and the military service.