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 First Lieutenant Fotios Vassilios Bekiaris, Greek Expeditionary Forces, for gallantry in action against the enemy near Song-Yiong-Si, Korea, on 28 September 1952. The second Company, Greek Expeditionary Forces Battalion, had the mission of seizing hill “Big Nori.” Lieutenant Bekiaris, a platoon leader spearheading the attack, courageously led his platoon through intense artillery and mortar fire and quickly secured the objective. Hostile forces immediately shelled the newly won position with mortar and artillery fire. Following closely behind, hostile forces launched a determined counterattack in an attempt to drive friendly forces off the hill. Although wounded, Lieutenant Bekiaris moved about the shell-torn terrain giving instructions to his men as they repulsed the enemy and inflicted heavy casualties. He so inspired his men that they successfully repulsed two hostile counterattacks. He was preparing his platoon to meet a third attack when he was mortally wounded by mortar fire. Lieutenant Bekiaris’s gallantry, aggressive action and devotion to duty reflect great credit on himself and the military service.