The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant Colonel (Infantry) Joseph O. Gerot (ASN: 0-30818), United States Army, for gallantry in action as Executive Officer, 9th Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy from 31 August 1950 to 2 September 1950 in the vicinity of Yongsan, Korea. On the night of 31 August 1950 the enemy launched a general offensive all along our lines. An estimated two enemy divisions directed the brunt of their assault against the 9th Infantry. Although the regiment fought courageously and fiercely, inflicting heavy casualties upon the enemy, the odds were overwhelmingly against them and immediate withdrawal for re-grouping was necessary. In the resultant confusion it became necessary for Colonel Gerot to assume command of the regiment and he immediately began to issue clear and concise directions for the orderly rearward displacement of administrative trains and the withdrawal of units in danger of envelopment. As the battle progressed, Colonel Gerot continuously exposed himself to deadly enemy fire, and continued to issue orders which resulted in a minimum loss of personnel and material. When it became necessary to move the regimental command post further to the rear he remained in position with a small operating group and continued to direct the operations of the regiment. He remained at this position until it became absolutely untenable because of intense hostile machine gun and small arms fire. After establishing a new command post, Colonel Gerot again went forward to direct battalion commanders in the reorganization of units. As a result of his keen judgment, alertness, courage and grasp of a difficult tactical situation, the units were so effectively organized that the 9th Infantry was able to counterattack on the morning of 2 September 1950. Upon reaching Yongsan, Colonel Gerot was informed that 200 men of the regiment had fought their way clear of entrapment and were in a perimeter defense north of Yongsan. He immediately commandeered trucks and personally led the way to the perimeter. He supervised the loading of the men on trucks under heavy hostile fire and returned to the safety of friendly lines, running a gauntlet of enemy artillery and sniper fire for the entire route. His gallantry and exemplary leadership during this trying period reflect the highest credit upon himself are in keeping with the fine traditions of the military service.