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 Sergeant Thomas D. Marek (ASN: RA-16309558), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company E, 9th Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy on 27 November 1950, in the vicinity of Kujang-dong, Korea. On that day the 2d Battalion had set up a defensive perimeter and the enemy was attacking, using an enormous amount of small arms, mortar and rocket fire on that part of the line. When his squad was being particularly hard hit, Sergeant Marek, with a determination to hold his position, moved among his men, encouraging them to fight on and also giving first aid to the wounded. Withdrawing to new defensive positions, Sergeant Marek, fearlessly assisted in the evacuation of the wounded men. Disregarding the danger, he again returned to his former position to assure himself that the remainder of his men would all withdraw safely. As he returned, the enemy was fiercely charging and overrunning the area. Sergeant Marek remained and opened fire to cover the withdrawal of his squad. The gallant conduct displayed by Sergeant Marek is in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the military service.