The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Second Lieutenant (Infantry) Mark Wenzel Mairich (ASN: 0-2262058), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company C, 38th Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 18 May 1951 in the vicinity of Kunmul-gol, Korea. On that date Company C was overrun by a numerically superior enemy force. Lieutenant Mairich continuously exposed himself to the heavy concentration of enemy fire while directing his men in their defense against the vicious enemy onslaught. Moving from one position to another he encouraged his men and inspired them with his heroic example. Later, when his unit was ordered to withdraw, Lieutenant Mairich led his men through the encircling hostile force. During this withdrawal he was wounded, but with utter disregard for his personal safety, ordered his men to continue while he remained to engage the enemy. When last seen, Lieutenant Mairich was fighting a gallant rear guard action against the fanatically determined hostile force. His leadership, courage, and selfless devotion to duty were an inspiration to all who witnessed his deeds and undoubtedly saved the lives of many men. The gallantry in action displayed by Lieutenant Mairich reflects great credit upon himself and the military service.