The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Second Lieutenant (Infantry) Leon L. Banashak (ASN: 0-2012568), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company A, 1st Battalion, 5th Regimental Combat Team, 24th Infantry Division, in action near Kaechan, Korea, on 5 November 1950. Friendly troops, occupying hill top positions on his company’s flank, were attacked by an enemy force greatly superior in numbers and supported by heavy mortar fire. The fury of the attack and the intensity of the fire temporarily disorganized the troops. Lieutenant Banashak, realizing the seriousness of the situation, made his way through a hail of fire, to the summit of the hill and rallied the troops. Determined to counter attack, he led the assault and the men, inspired by his fearless example, overran the positions and drove the enemy from the area leaving behind many dead and wounded. Lieutenant Banashak’s gallant action, unhesitant devotion to duty and superior leadership reflect the greatest credit on himself and the United States Infantry.