The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Second Lieutenant (Infantry), [then Master Sergeant] Jess R. Mendenhall (ASN: 0-2212055), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company B, 23d Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy from 31 August 1950 to 1 September 1950 in the vicinity of Changnyong, Korea. During this period a numerically superior enemy force attacked the perimeter of a rifle company defending its positions. As a result of this action, it was necessary for the troops in the area to withdraw to a better defensive position although under extremely heavy fire from the advancing enemy. Lieutenant Mendenhall, then platoon sergeant of the weapons platoon, remained behind to observe and direct the fire of friendly artillery and mortars. This observation was conducted under intense enemy fire, and at great risk to his personal safety. At times, Lieutenant Mendenhall drew artillery and mortar fire to within 50 yards of his own position, disregarding completely the risk to his own life. He remained in the exposed position, adjusting friendly artillery fire, until all of his unit had been safely withdrawn. Lieutenant Mendenhall’s calm, self-confident, and courageous performance of duty under intense enemy fire reflects great credit upon himself and is in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service.

The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star to Second Lieutenant (Infantry) Jess R. Mendenhall (ASN: 0-2212055), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company B, 23d Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy on 22 September 1950 in the vicinity of Sinban-ni, Korea. On that date his company was subjected to an enemy attack and was forced to withdraw from its positions. During the early phases of the engagement the company commander and the second in command became casualties, leaving Lieutenant Mendenhall in command of the company. With the enemy already within the company’s perimeter, he steadfastly held his position until he could supervise the orderly withdrawal to a point from which he could reorganize the unit, prepared supporting fires, and with unconcern for personal safety, led a counterattack against the enemy. His courageous leadership inspired his men to follow him and they succeeded in regaining their former positions. The gallantry and skillful leadership displayed by Lieutenant Mendenhall reflect great credit upon himself and the Armed Forces of the United States.