The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private First Class Robert Gerstner (ASN: RA-17240411), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company G, 23d Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy on 12 September 1950 in the vicinity of Changnyong, Korea. On that date his rifle platoon was assaulting high ground against the opposition of well-entrenched enemy forces. During its advance, the platoon’s left flank was subjected to intense hostile small arms fire delivered from a concealed pocket. Private Gerstner immediately advanced in a single-handed assault of the enemy strongpoint and, hurling hand grenades, destroyed the enemy emplacement. He continued his fearless charge up the hill, firing his rifle with such devastating effect that the entire right flank of the enemy was forced to withdraw. His heroic action allowed the platoon to advance and seize its objective with a minimum of casualties. During the mopping-up operations which followed the successful attack, Private Gerstner was killed by enemy fire. The gallantry displayed by Private Gerstner reflected great credit upon himself and fully uphold the finest traditions of the military service.