The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private First Class Theodore William Bakker (ASN: US-55042686), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company C, 1st Battalion, 21st Infantry Regiment, 24th Infantry Division, near Kumsong, Korea, on 18 October 1951. During an attack on an enemy-held objective, elements of his company were suddenly pinned down in exposed positions by a steady, concentrated stream of fire from an enemy machine gun. The friendly troops, unable to move, were in extreme danger. Private Bakker, realizing the need for immediate action, leaped to his feet and, fearlessly exposing himself to the intense enemy fire, moved across a ridgeline and poured devastatingly accurate bursts of fire into the enemy position with his automatic rifle. His action forced the enemy to seek cover temporarily, enabling his comrades to gain more advantageous positions. As the friendly troops reached safety, the enemy machine gun suddenly resumed firing and mortally wounded him. Private Bakker’s courageous action, daring initiative and self-sacrificing devotion to his unit’s mission reflect the highest credit on himself and the United States Infantry.