The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class Edward J. Gerevics (MCSN: 1136720), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as a Rifleman of Company A, First Battalion, Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 29 May 1951. Volunteering to man a machine gun whose crew had all become casualties when the unit was subjected to an intense hostile mortar barrage during the company’s assault against a series of well-fortified enemy positions, Private First Class Gerevics exposed himself to the devastating hostile barrage during the ensuing action to deliver a large volume of accurate fire upon the enemy positions. Although painfully wounded in the hand, he refused medical attention and continued to pour heavy fire in support of the assaulting elements, pinning the enemy down and enabling his comrades to seize their objective with minimum friendly losses. Only after the successful completion of his mission did he seek medical treatment for his wound. By his outstanding courage, initiative and resolute determination, Private First Class Gerevics served to inspire all who observed him and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.