The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Sergeant First Class Edward Samuels (ASN: RA-33575442), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Tank Company, 23d Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy on 19 September 1950 near Changnyong, Korea. On that date he commanded four tanks in support of a rifle company whose mission was to take Hill 174 overlooking the Naktong River. During the attack he lost contact with the company and three of his tanks. Although the enemy was subjecting the area to heavy automatic weapons and mortar fire he jumped from his tank and dashed through the intense hostile fire to establish contact with the infantry elements in order to coordinate his movements. After receiving instructions from the infantry commander he again made his way under heavy enemy fire to his tank. Standing exposed on the tank, and using his .50 caliber machine gun he eliminated the enemy automatic weapon on Hill 174. He guided his tank to a new firing position by walking ahead of it. His complete disregard for personal safety and his devotion to duty enabled him to keep his tank in support of our attacking elements. This permitted them to complete their mission with a minimum of casualties. The gallantry and high devotion to duty displayed by Sergeant Samuels on this occasion reflect great credit upon himself and are in keeping with the high traditions of the military service.