The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Second Lieutenant (Infantry) Frank H. Gardner, Jr. (ASN: 0-954783), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company D, 23d Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy on 2 September 1950, in the vicinity of Changnyong, Korea.. The enemy had seized a commanding hill which was a key position in the defense line of the 1st Battalion, 23d Infantry Regiment, and had set up a 120-mm. Mortar and a machine gun which dominated the battalion perimeter. To prevent a very serious attack to American forces it was absolutely necessary to eliminate this enemy strong point. Lieutenant Gardner led his platoon up the hill, setting an example of inspiring leadership by his grim determination to wipe out this threat to our lines. Disregarding the intense mortar, machine gun and small arms fire delivered by the enemy in his emplaced position, he continued to lead his platoon forward up the slope of the hill in a determined charge. The enemy was completely routed, leaving behind an estimated 12 dead and many wounded. As a result of this timely, well-executed, and brilliantly led attack, the battalion was able to hold its position and keep its casualties to a minimum. The gallantry displayed on this occasion by Lieutenant Gardner was an inspiration to all who witnessed it and reflects great credit upon himself and the military service.