The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class Eldon J. Chalupa, United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Headquarters and Service company, 8th Engineer Combat Battalion, 1st Cavalry Division, in action against the enemy on 23 August 1951 near Chimpa-ri, Korea. Corporal Chalupa, operator of a D-8 dozer, accompanied other members of a recovery force on a mission to recover damaged vehicles from enemy territory. As the party advanced over muddy fields and washed out roads, it was subjected to hostile artillery and mortar fire. In spite of the extreme danger, Corporal Chalup continued to operate his unarmored dozer, freeing mired tanks and other vehicles and cutting new roads when necessary. The courageous deed inspired his comrades to greater efforts and contributed materially to the recovery of the vital equipment. Corporal Chalupa’s gallantry reflects great credit on himself and the military service.