The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class Charles A. Kirchner (ASN: RA-17271464), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of the Heavy Mortar Company, 27th Infantry Regiment, 25th Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy in Korea. On 24 July 1950, near Oanyang, Korea, a large enemy force penetrated the position of the company with which Private First Class Kirchner was serving. Heedless of he intense, close-range fire he continued to direct mortar fire even when the enemy was within 25 yards of him. Crawling to a hill crest, he called fire down within 60 yards of his already hazardous position, then shifted fire on a banzai attack which threatened another area, and broke up the enemy force. By his conspicuous gallantry, great ability and dauntless devotion to duty, Private First Class Kirchner contributed vitally in saving he unit from being overrun and set an example worthy of emulation. His actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.