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 Robert J. Sanders (ASN: US-52069073), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Battery B, 37th Field Artillery Battalion, 2d Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 19 September 1951 in the vicinity of Pia-ri, Korea. On this date Sergeant Sanders, artillery forward observer, was attached to a friendly unit which had the mission to assault and secure the high ground on ÔHeartbreak Ridge’. During the ensuing action the unit was pinned down by a heavy concentration of enemy small arms and mortar fire. Sergeant Sanders, with complete disregard for his personal safety, advanced to an exposed position in order to better observe hostile positions. Despite the continuous enemy mortar fire falling in his vicinity, he remained in his position and directed accurate and effective artillery fire on the enemy. Sergeant Sanders continued this action, inflicting numerous casualties upon the hostile force, until he was wounded and forced to retire. His selfless devotion to duty was an inspiration to his comrades and was highly responsible for neutralizing the enemy fire, thus reducing the casualties among the friendly forces. The gallantry in action displayed by Sergeant Sanders on this occasion reflects great credit upon himself and the military service.