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 Corporal Merlin J. Helbach (ASN: US-55056200), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company I, 23d Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, gallantry in action against the enemy on 10 October 1951 in the vicinity of Satae-ri, Korea. On that date Corporal Helbach, serving in the capacity of a communications chief, was with a unit which was engaged in a fierce fire fight with a fanatically determined hostile force. During this engagement, he voluntarily left his partially covered emplacement to replace an assistant machine gunner who had become a casualty. Corporal Helbach fearlessly crossed the fire-swept terrain and assumed the responsibilities of his fallen comrade. In the course of this act, he observed that more effective fire could be placed on the enemy from an advanced position. Although it offered little cover or concealment, Corporal Helbach unhesitatingly carried his weapon over the treacherous area to the new site and commenced firing on the enemy. In the ensuing fire fight he was mortally wounded but as a direct result of his courageous action, such devastating fire was employed on the hostile forces that they withdrew in wild disorder. His initiative and selfless devotion to duty were an inspiration to all who observed him. The gallantry in action displayed by Corporal Helbach on this occasion reflects great credit upon himself and the military service.