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 Arnold Havelka (ASN: US-55077123), United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as a member of Company B, 1st Battalion, 19th Infantry Regiment, 24th Infantry Division, in action near Chuktae-ri, Korea, on 19 October 1951. Serving as ammunition bearer, Private Havelka determinedly delivered ammunition to the gunners over the rough terrain under an intense concentration of mortar fire. During the operation, the strongly entrenched enemy swept the friendly positions with devastating bursts of fire, inflicting several casualties and forcing the riflemen to seek cover. Seeing that some of his comrades had fallen in completely exposed positions, Private Havelka fearlessly sprang from his protective cover and with complete disregard for his own safety, raced through the hail of bullets to their side. Administering first aid, he lifted a man to his shoulders and hurriedly carried him to safety. He went forward again to rescue two other comrades, but as he returned with the last men, he was mortally wounded by small arms fire. Private Havelka’s gallant actions, indomitable spirit and self-sacrificing devotion to his comrades saved three lives which might otherwise have been lost and reflect the highest credit on himself and the U.S. Infantry.