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 Elmer N. Brokaw (ASN: RA-17193415), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company F, 2d Battalion, 15th Infantry Regiment, 3d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy in Korea. On the night of 24 April and during the early morning hours of 25 April 1953, elements of Company F, 2d Battalion, of which Sergeant Brokaw was platoon sergeant, were defending their positions on Outpost “Harry”, in the vicinity of Surang-ni, Korea, when a numerically superior hostile force attacked. Sergeant Brokaw immediately dispersed his men and directed them to more tenable positions. He tried to call in friendly artillery but lost radio contact. While he was standing by the radio, a shell hit a nearby bunker, dislodging a beam which fell on his back. He freed himself from the debris and threw grenades at the charging foe. He was then informed that the platoon leader was mortally wounded and that he was to take command. Sergeant Brokaw set up a line of defense and delivered continuous fire on the hostile force, taking control of one machine gun himself. After reinforcements arrived and he was relieved of his position, he assisted in the evacuation of a wounded man who had been buried in a bunker. He then took control of several disorganized squads and successfully led a counterattack back up the hill through a heavy barrage of artillery fire. As a result of his actions, the lives of many friendly soldiers were saved and numerous hostile casualties were inflicted. Sergeant Brokaw’s outstanding gallantry, initiative and devotion to duty reflects great credit upon himself and the military service.