The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant Colonel (Infantry) Hiram M. Merritt (ASN: 0-32638), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Headquarters, 2d Battalion, 35th Infantry Regiment, 25th Infantry Division, in Korea. On 25 March 1951, while driving toward Chiktong-ni, Korea, the assault company of Lieutenant Colonel Merritt’s Battalion was brought under intense automatic weapons and mortar fire. Moving forward to replace the wounded company commander, Lieutenant Colonel Merritt repeatedly exposed himself to the deadly barrage to direct the advantageous placement of half-tracks and tanks. By his skillful coordination of movement and fire, he was instrumental in enabling his men to regain the initiative and drive the entrenched foe to flight. Lieutenant Colonel Merritt’s calm courage, military ability and inspirational devotion to duty are in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Army.