The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Master Sergeant [then Private First Class] Arnold A. Mikeska (ASN: RA-18305907), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company H, 2d Battalion, 7th Infantry Regiment, 3d Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in Korea. On 24 April 1951 as Sergeant Mikeska’s unit was occupying defensive positions near Taejon-ni, Korea, it was subjected to an intense barrage of grenades, small arms, and mortar fire from a large hostile force. During the attack, a number of enemy soldiers succeeded in infiltrating behind the line. Sergeant Mikeska, observing six of the foe approaching from the rear, immediately realized the danger to his comrades and, exposing himself to the enemy fire, saturated the area with grenades and small arms fire, completely eliminating the threat. The machine gun section then received orders to withdraw with Sergeant Mikeska, furnishing cover fire for it, and only when he was sure they had reached a safe location did he leave his position. After a hasty reorganization the section was again attacked by an overwhelming hostile force which pinned it down. With complete disregard for his personal safety, Sergeant Mikeska lifted the machine gun with his bare hands and courageously began advancing toward the enemy, laying down a lethal field of fire and clearing a path for his comrades to make a successful withdrawal. Sergeant Mikeska’s daring gallantry reflects the highest credit upon himself and the military service.