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 Vernon C. Hardin (ASN: RA-14297781), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company C, 8th Engineer Combat Battalion, 1st Cavalry Division, in action against the enemy on 11 October 1950, near Kaesong, Korea. When it became necessary for an area in front of advancing friendly infantry troops to be cleared of concealed anti-personnel mines, Private Hardin immediately volunteered for the dangerous assignment. Although intense artillery and mortar shells were rocking and showering the mine field with jagged shrapnel, he moved out with his men detection equipment and courageously started to sweep the area. Forced to fling himself upon the ground when shells exploded close by, Private Hardin quickly arose after each burst and doggedly continued to search for the traps of death that would threaten his fellow soldiers if not found and removed. While engaged in this mission, Private Hardin made the supreme sacrifice when he was struck by enemy mortar fire. His extreme bravery and courageous devotion to duty, at the cost of his own life, aided materially in clearing a mined area for the passage of infantry troops. Private Hardin’s gallantry is in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service.