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 Private First Class Eugene Langenfeld (ASN: RA-17281774), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company G, 23d Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy on 8 June 1951, near Najontyong, North Korea. On that date his company had secured its objective and had set up defensive positions, when it was suddenly subjected to a barrage of enemy mortar fire which wounded several men. During this action Private Langenfeld, with complete disregard for his personal safety, left his position of comparative safety and advanced to a forward position from which he could better observe the enemy. Locating the enemy mortar, he called for and directed friendly mortar fire upon the enemy’s position. While thus exposing himself, he was killed by a round from the enemy mortar. His courageous action undoubtedly saved the lives of many of his comrades and was directly responsible for neutralizing the enemy mortar position. The gallantry of Private Langenfeld reflects great credit upon himself and upholds the highest traditions of the Military Service of the United States.