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 Harold D. Cook (ASN: US-56093353), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company C, 38th Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 11 and 12 September 1951 in the vicinity of Taeusan, Korea. On 11 September, Private Cook, providing machine gun support during Company C’s assault on strategic enemy positions, demonstrated courage and daring in moving his weapon to the most forward position. While exposed to hostile fire he employed a heavy base of fire, enabling his unit to secure its objective. On 12 September, during the unit’s attack on the final objective, they came under intense enemy fire from well-fortified bunkers. Private Cook voluntarily moved his machine gun to the rear of the enemy, and destroyed several of their emplacements while inflicting numerous casualties upon them. During this courageous action Private Cook was fatally wounded by enemy fire but as a result of his self-sacrificing action friendly units were able to advance and secure their objective with a minimum of casualties. The gallantry in action displayed by Private Cook reflects great credit upon himself and the military service.