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] Melvin J. Ernster (ASN: NG-27359200), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company G, 9th Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 8 October 1951 in the vicinity of Sadanggol, Korea. On this date Company G’s advance upon enemy positions was halted by a surprise hostile attack. Corporal Ernster, a squad leader, led his machine gun squad to an extreme forward position to engage the enemy. Securing an exposed position, he directed accurate and effective fire upon the enemy which slowed his advance. During the ensuing action, intense hostile fire wounded the machine gunner and his assistant, leaving Corporal Ernster alone with the weapon. Undaunted, he immediately operated the weapon and continued to deliver a heavy base of fire upon the hostile forces, inflicting numerous casualties upon them. As a result of his courageous efforts, friendly forces were able to repel the hostile attack. The gallantry in action and devotion to duty displayed by Corporal Ernster on this occasion reflects great credit upon himself and the military service.