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 William Martin Schardein (ASN: US-52199674), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company K, 3d Battalion, 7th Infantry Regiment, 3d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy in Korea. During the early morning hours of 24 June 1953, in the vicinity of Chat-Kol, Korea, Corporal Schardein had the mission of guiding an Infantry platoon from the dismount point to the main line of resistance, where it would reinforce front line elements under attack by a numerically superior enemy force. By the time the trucks had arrived, the area was under heavy enemy artillery and mortar fire. Corporal Schardein swiftly organized the new men and proceeded through the bombardment toward the contested position. He courageously led the way through the increasing barrage and, nearing the foot of the hill aggressively moved up the draw. Before reaching the crest, he encountered two of the enemy and rapidly mortally wounded them. He bravely continued up the slope until exploding mortar rounds mortally wounded him. His mission was successful and, with the aid of additional troops, the defenders decisively repelled the attack. Corporal Schardein’s outstanding gallantry and devotion to duty reflects great credit upon himself and the military service.