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 Merle L. Meadows (ASN: RA-19322159), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company E, 23d Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy on 5 September 1950 in the vicinity of Changnyong, Korea. Private Meadows had been posted at a listening post forward of his platoon’s lines with instructions to withdraw if any enemy were observed or heard to his front. A large enemy force infiltrated through the company’s lines and pressed a heavy attack on his platoon. Although his position was extremely vulnerable, Private Meadows immediately opened fire on the enemy’s flank, thus giving away his precarious position. Demoralized by his heavy and accurate enfilade fire which caused them severe casualties, the enemy withdrew, firing upon his position as they retreated. Private Meadows continued to pour devastating fire into the enemy until he was struck by hostile fire and fell mortally wounded. The gallantry displayed by Private Meadows reflects great credit upon himself and the military service.