The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Corporal [then Private First Class] Ralph M. Yahiku (ASN: US-50000371), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company A, 38th Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 28 July 1951 in the vicinity of Taeusan, Korea. On that date, Company A spearheaded an attack against a well fortified enemy-held hill. While advancing, the unit was suddenly subjected to intense enemy grenade and automatic weapons fire. Corporal Yahiku, assistant machine gunner, placed his weapon and directed devastating fire upon the well-entrenched enemy. After several hours of fierce fighting the unit was ordered to withdraw. Corporal Yahiku remained in his position and fought a delaying action until his comrades withdrew to a defensive position. The gallantry and devotion to duty displayed by Corporal Yahiku reflect great credit upon himself and the military service.