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 First Class Robert Eugene Landes (ASN: RA-37745932), United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as a member of Company H, 2d Battalion, 8th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division, in action near Yongdong, Korea, on 25 July 1950. Sergeant Landes was acting as a forward observer for a section of an 81-mm. Mortar Platoon that was assigned a support mission to two Rifle Companies of Second Battalion, 8th Cavalry Regiment (Infantry). The mission of the unit was to clear an enemy road block and seize a mountain pass, thereby allowing the rest of the Battalion to withdraw from a pocket. In order to accomplish his mission, Sergeant Landes had to expose himself to enemy automatic rifle, mortar and artillery fire. With complete disregard for his personal safety, Sergeant Landes stood on the crest of the hill, using himself for an aiming point, while directing the fire of his section. Although seriously wounded, Sergeant Landes remained at his position until such time as his gun crews had accomplished their mission in neutralizing enemy strong holds, thus allowing the surrounded battalion to withdraw. Sergeant Landes’ heroic action reflects great credit upon himself and was in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service.