The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Second Lieutenant Douglas W. Blalock (ASN: 0-947892), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Battery A, 26th Anti-Aircraft Artillery (AW) Battalion, 24th ID, in action against the enemy near Taejon, Korea, on 20 July 1950. During a withdrawal, his battery and other unites encountered an effective enemy road block protected by hostile fire from a nearby hill and enemy-held village. Leaving the protection of buildings lining the road, Lieutenant Blalock and a soldier directed the crews of two anti-aircraft vehicles to mount their vehicles and bring the fire of their automatic weapons to bear on the enemy held positions. By directing the friendly fire into the enemy positions, although exposed to small arms and automatic fire, Lieutenant Blalock succeeded in burning out the enemy-held village and reducing the accuracy of the hillside fire. Through his efforts the road block was reduced and the road reopened to friendly troops. When last seen Lieutenant Blalock was still advancing against the enemy positions. His gallant actions, with complete disregard for his own safety, reflect great credit upon himself and the military service.