The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Corporal Anthony A. Sonnentag (ASN: US-55035859), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company C, 1st Battalion, 5th Regimental Combat Team, 24th Infantry Division, near Yongon-ni, Korea, on 20 October 1951. His unit had the mission of defending a hill from attack by the enemy. Under the cover of darkness the fanatical foe began their assault and they were aided by such an intense, murderous concentration of mortar and small arms fire that the friendly troops decided to withdraw for tactical reasons. Realizing the danger of the enemy overrunning the friendly troops Corporal Sonnentag, remained behind to act as a rear guard. He delivered a devastating hail of bullets and held back the hostile troops until his unit was able to complete an orderly withdrawal. Corporal Sonnentag’s gallant action, outstanding initiative and selfless performance of duty were a great inspiration to his comrades and reflect the highest credit on himself and the United States Infantry.