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 Phillip R. Diaz (ASN: US-56143719), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company C, 38th Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy on 2 September 1951 in the vicinity of Taeusan, Korea. On this date, during an attack on enemy positions, Private Diaz was with the leading platoon. He personally inflicted numerous casualties upon the enemy and was an inspiration to all who witnessed his cool behavior before the hostile force. During the assault upon an intermediate objective his platoon was pinned down by intense enemy small arms, and automatic weapons fire. Private Diaz, realizing the seriousness of the situation and with complete disregard for his own safety, advanced to the most forward positions and exposed himself to the murderous hail of enemy fire. He succeeded in destroying an enemy machine gun emplacement and killing all its occupants before he fell fatally wounded. His dauntless courage and selfless devotion to duty were an inspiration to all who observed him and enabled his platoon to continue its advance and secure the objective. The gallantry in action displayed by Private Diaz reflects great credit upon himself and the military service.