The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting a Second Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Third Award of the Silver Star to First Lieutenant (Infantry) Charles T. Kareiva (ASN: 0-578126), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company F, 38th Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 12 February 1951 in the vicinity of Wonju, Korea. On that date Lieutenant Kareiva’s platoon had the mission of assaulting and securing a strategic enemy-held hill. As the unit neared its objective, intense fire from hostile positions halted its advance. Lieutenant Kareiva, completely disregarding his own safety, assaulted the enemy positions with his carbine calling to his men to follow. When almost to the top of the hill, he exposed himself to the enemy and delivered effective fire upon him while a machine gun was being placed into position. Immediately reorganizing his men, he skillfully led them into the attack and succeeded in securing the objective. Later, when a friendly unit was ordered to withdraw, Lieutenant Kareiva remained behind with a reinforced squad and skillfully directed a rear guard action. Through his outstanding leadership and selfless devotion to duty, friendly units were able to complete their mission with a minimum of casualties. The gallantry in action displayed by Lieutenant Kareiva on this occasion reflects great credit upon himself and the military service.

The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant (Infantry) Charles T. Kareiva (ASN: 0-578126), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company F, 38th Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy on 7 January 1951 in the vicinity of Wonju, Korea. During the early morning hours of that date the enemy launched a heavy attack against Company F and succeeded in surrounding the platoon commanded by Lieutenant Kareiva on three sides. Ordered to withdraw his platoon to better firing position, Lieutenant Kareiva remained behind and covered the withdrawal with rifle fire. Exposing himself to deadly close-range enemy fire, he maintained a steady and accurate fire and killed many of the enemy. As soon as the platoon had reached its new position, he reorganized his men and joined the company in a counterattack. Fearlessly assaulting the hostile right flank and skillfully leading his platoon he routed the enemy with heavy losses and enabled his company to seize its objective. The gallantry and inspiring leadership displayed by Lieutenant Kareiva reflect the highest credit upon himself are in keeping with the fine traditions of the military service.