The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Sergeant [then Corporal] Earl F. Konoske (ASN: RA-36953238), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company K, 23d Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy on 19 September 1950 near Yongpo, Korea. On that date his platoon was attacking enemy positions on high ground. The advance of his squad was halted by intense enemy machine gun fire. Moving forward alone, he engaged the enemy with automatic rifle fire. This action diverted the hostile fire to himself and enabled his squad to move to the reverse slope of the hill. He then advanced through the heavy enemy fire to a wounded member of his squad, and again fired upon the enemy in order to provide cover for an aid man who was moving his wounded comrade to a safe position. His courageous actions under severe enemy fire were an inspiration to his comrades and were greatly instrumental to the success of his platoon in accomplishing its mission. The gallantry displayed by Sergeant Konoske reflects the highest great upon himself is in keeping with the fine traditions of the military service.