The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Sergeant Robert A. Gonzales (ASN: RA-39076028), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company C, 1st Battalion, 35th Infantry Regiment, 25th Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy in Korea. While on duty at a mortar position near Kanan, Korea, on 2 September 1950, Sergeant Gonzales detected activity at a vital bridge to the rear of the company’s position. Moving to within a few yards of the bridge, he voiced a challenge and was immediately subjected to a burst of automatic weapons fire which seriously wounded him. Despite his wounds he directed fire on the enemy group, killing one, wounding two and setting the remainder to flight. Sergeant Gonzales’ conspicuous courage, dauntless determination, and selfless devotion to duty are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service.