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 Louis E. Stak (ASN: RA-20128189), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 35th Infantry Regiment, 25th Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy in Korea. On 1 September 1950, near Saga, Korea, Sergeant First Class Stak’s Intelligence and Reconnaissance Section was defending a portion of the Nam River line against a major hostile attack. During three hours of furious assault, he moved throughout the positions encouraging his men and directing their movement and fire. Although virtually surrounded by hostile troops, his courage and resolute manner so inspired his men that they held off the enemy until counterattacking troops could restore the line. Sergeant First Class Stak’s leadership, tactical ability and steadfast devotion to duty are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.