The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private First Class George J. Santore (ASN: RA-13307677), United States Army, for gallantry in action against the enemy on 2 September 1950, while serving with the Heavy Mortar Company, 8th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division, near Tabu-dong, Korea. When the enemy had launched a barrage of heavy artillery and mortar fire to support attacking infantry units, Private Santore, gunner in a 4.2 mortar squad, displayed outstanding courage, in the face of the enemy, and inspired his comrades to such a degree that a greater volume of fire resulted from the entire platoon. During the terrific artillery and mortar shelling, his squad received orders to withdraw and take cover. Private Santore, however, remained at his position, courageously and fearlessly firing his mortar at the enemy, despite the shrapnel fragments that literally rained around him. During this heroic action, Private Santore made the supreme sacrifice when an enemy shell made a direct hit on his emplacement. Private Santore’s great courage and devotion to duty reflect great credit upon himself and the military service.