The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Sergeant [then Corporal] Richard C. Eshelman (ASN: US-52074307), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Medical Company, 9th Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 6 October 1951 in the vicinity of Kongdong, Korea. On this date, Sergeant Eshelman was attached to Company I during its assault on vital enemy-held positions. In the course of this action, the unit was subjected to intense hostile automatic weapons and small arms fire which inflicted many friendly casualties. As the unit temporarily withdrew to cover, the wounded were left behind exposed to enemy observation and fire. Sergeant Eshelman, a medical aidman, disregarding his own safety went toward the friendly lines to assist the wounded men. While exposed to the hostile fire he administered first aid and evacuated his wounded comrades to safety. He made repeated trips over the fire-swept area until all of the wounded men were safely evacuated. His courageous action and selfless devotion to duty were an inspiration to the men of his unit and undoubtedly saved the lives of many of his comrades. The gallantry in action displayed by Sergeant Eshelman on this occasion reflects great credit upon himself and the military service.