Headquarters, 2d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 833 (December 8, 1951)
The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting a Fourth Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Fifth Award of the Silver Star to Colonel (Infantry) Frank Thomas Mildren (ASN: 0-21992), United States Army, for gallantry in action as Commanding Officer of the 38th Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 9 October 1951 in the vicinity of Sanggon-bae, Korea. On this date the 2d Battalion of the regiment was attacking Hill 800 to secure vital enemy-held positions. As the unit advanced it was halted by intense automatic weapons, small arms and artillery fire from a numerically superior enemy force. Realizing that the situation was critical, Colonel Mildren left his observation post and voluntarily advanced to an exposed position which was under direct hostile observation and fire of self propelled artillery. With utter disregard for his personal safety, he remained in this position and directed effective artillery, mortar, tank, and 75-mm. recoilless rifle fire against the well-entrenched hostile force. During the fierce fight, Colonel Mildren directed the fire with such accuracy that the enemy started to withdraw. Inspired by his example of bravery, the men of the battalion advanced in the attack confidently and aggressively, and with devastating effectiveness destroyed or dispersed the enemy and secured their objective. The gallantry in action and aggressive leadership displayed by Colonel Mildren on this occasion reflect great credit upon himself and the military service.