The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Second Lieutenant (Infantry) Elwood G. Simula (ASN: 0-1688238), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company I, 38th Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy on 14 February 1951 in the vicinity of Wonju, Korea. Lieutenant Simula was leading a platoon with a mission of defending a high ridge on the right flank of the company. At about 0300 hours, the enemy attacked the positions and soon, by use of overwhelming numbers and intense automatic weapons and small arms fire, had forced the withdrawal of a company on the right flank of Company I. Immediately Lieutenant Simula, with complete indifference for his personal safety, left his covered position and moved about the area reorganizing his platoon into a perimeter defense to cover the exposed flank and protect the position against enveloping attacks. Throughout the remainder of the night, he remained fully exposed to enemy fire as he directed the defense of his perimeter against repeated enemy onslaughts. Under his inspiring leadership his platoon stiffened and hurled back each hostile assault, holding their position until friendly forces counterattacked and relieved them. The gallantry displayed by Lieutenant Simula reflects the highest great upon himself is in keeping with the fine traditions of the military service.