The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain (Medical Service Corps) Charles K. Gardenier (ASN: 0-565405), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Medical Company, 7th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division, in action against the enemy on 14 August 1950, near Wichandang, Korea. Captain Gardenier with two Medical Aid Men, went forward to an advanced position to evacuate wounded men. The mission was coordinated with a group of light tanks operating in the vicinity to afford protection to the medical team. The tanks were forced to withdraw leaving Captain Gardenier exposed to heavy enemy small arms and machine gun fire. Without regard for his own safety, he continued his attempt to reach the wounded men but was prevented from doing so when he was attacked by a group of enemy soldiers firing automatic weapons. During this attack he was wounded seriously in the right arm and shoulder. In his gallant attempt to reach and aid wounded men, Captain Gardenier reflected great credit upon himself and his actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service.