The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain (Corps of Engineers) Mederith J. Larson (ASN: 0-1101539), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the Military Advisory Group Korea (KMAG), in action against the enemy near Yuchon-ni, Korea. On 18 March 1951, the Republic of Korea 3d Combat Engineer Battalion had the mission of preventing the main body of an enemy division from crossing the Hajinbu-Kangnung Rolled until reinforcements could arrive. Shortly after 0400 hours, contact was made and a fierce battle between two companies of the battalion and the enemy began. As enemy strength built up, Captain Larson committed the reserve company to reinforce the right flank, personally leading them into position and directing their fire on the enemy. At approximately 0545 hours, one of the battalion companies broke under the attack and began fleeing down the road. As he exposed himself to the intense enemy fire in an effort to stop the fleeing troops, Captain Larson was shot in both legs. Refusing medical aid, he remained with the battalion until he was certain that the troops would hold, then with the aid of another officer, he obtained a vehicle and was driven down the fire swept road, reaching a point where he could stop the retreating company. He instructed the driver to stop, dismounted and, supporting himself by holding on to the vehicle, he halted the fleeing troops and directed them back to the lines. He then returned to the battalion positions and remained until reinforcements arrived. The gallant and intrepid actions of Captain Larson reflect great credit on himself and the military service.