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 Louis F. Polus (ASN: RA-19734469), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company E, 38th Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy on 16 May 1951, in the vicinity of Umidong, Korea. On that date Private Polus’ platoon had the mission to seize and secure a high ridge. While advancing upon the objective, the platoon became engaged in a fierce fire fight, when Private Polus noticed a group of enemy coming over the ridgeline to his right. Disregarding his own safety, he immediately left his concealed position and crept toward the enemy infiltrators. Throwing hand grenades and firing his rifle as he suddenly rose in front of them, he threw the enemy off balance and forced the infiltrators off the ridge. He then ran toward another platoon position, still under heavy enemy fire, and led a group of men to hold that area. He remained exposed on the ridge line, calmly and steadily delivering a well-aimed fire at the enemy who was making renewed efforts to overcome the platoon. His inspiring courage and determined leadership enabled the platoon to beat off the enemy with heavy losses. The gallantry and utter disregard for his own safety displayed by Private Polus reflect great credit upon himself and uphold the highest traditions of the Military Service of the United States.