The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant (Infantry) Robert C. Gardenier (ASN: 0-1340548), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of the 3d Reconnaissance Company, 3d Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in Korea. On 26 May 1951, a 3d Reconnaissance Company platoon, under Lieutenant Gardenier’s command, was assigned to lead a mission for stopping or delaying an enemy offensive near Sawolpyong, Korea. As they moved forward, elements of the lead platoon encountered an enemy road block which halted the unit’s progress. Moving forward, Lieutenant Gardenier skillfully deployed his troops to launch an attack which overran the road block and adjacent hostile positions after a sharp skirmish with the enemy. As friendly vehicles advanced during the firefight, a tank and personnel carrier simultaneously hit anti-tank mines, which exploded and overturned both vehicles, leaving many wounded men lying helplessly exposed to enemy fire. Lieutenant Gardenier, observing this, went fearlessly to the vehicles and moved about, organizing the evacuation, aiding and encouraging the wounded, and simultaneously directing the platoon’s action with the enemy. While making a final check of personnel and equipment, he suffered a wound from hostile sniper fire and was evacuated. The gallantry and resolute leadership displayed by Lieutenant Gardenier reflects the highest credit upon himself and the military service.