The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class Irvin L. Pickard (ASN: US-56055818), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving as a Medical Corpsman attached to Company A, 23d Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy on 21 July 1952 in the vicinity of Chorwon, North Korea. On that date, Private Pickard was serving in the capacity of a medical aid man for a unit which was holding a vital position on Hill 266, known as “Old Baldy”. The enemy unleashed a devastating barrage of artillery and mortar fire, which inflicted many casualties upon the friendly unit. Private Pickard, with complete disregard for personal safety, moved across the heavily shelled terrain, giving medical attention to the wounded. He remained in this exposed position, tending to and providing for his comrades until they were all safely evacuated. The extraordinary gallantry displayed by Private Pickard reflects great credit upon himself and the military service.