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 [then Private First Class] Robert L. Banks (ASN: RA-11200859), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of the Medical Company, 9th Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy on 8 March 1951, in the vicinity of Hagomunnae, Korea. On that date he was the company aid man attached to a rifle company which was attacking enemy-held high ground. Due to the intensity of the enemy fire, the company was forced to halt its frontal attack and attempt a flanking movement. While moving across an open field the company was subjected to an intense mortar barrage, which inflicted heavy casualties upon the men. While others were seeking cover, Corporal Banks immediately went to the aid of his wounded comrades. Completely disregarding his own safety and ignoring the enemy barrage, he administered aid to the wounded men. After treating two comrades he moved to another casualty and while administering aid to his fallen comrade he was struck by mortar fragments and was wounded. Inspired by his bravery and courage, the men of the company left their positions of safety and carried their wounded comrades to shelter. The courageous actions and selfless devotion to his fallen comrades displayed by Corporal Banks reflect great credit upon himself and uphold the highest traditions of the Military Service of the United States.