The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Chaplain Peter Darwin Van Dyke, United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as Chaplain with the 17th Infantry Regiment, 7th Infantry Division, in Korea on 3 July 1952. During intense enemy fire, Chaplain Van Dyke left his position in a rear-area aid station and dashed about the battlefield ministering to wounded and dying, encouraging those still fighting, and aiding the litter bearers. As the unit was forced to withdraw, he remained on the field until all of the wounded were evacuated, personally carrying out the last man. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Van Dyke, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.