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 George L. Swango (ASN: RA-18163649), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company G, 38th Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 22 July 1951 in the vicinity of Pidul-kogae, Korea. On that date, a platoon size patrol was sent out from Company G to obtain information on the enemy’s positions. Sergeant Swango was acting as artillery observer and assistant platoon sergeant. As the patrol approached the enemy positions, it was subjected to heavy concentrations of hostile mortar, small arms, and automatic weapons fire. Forced to withdraw, Sergeant Swango discovered that their route of escape was also zeroed in by enemy mortars and machine guns. While his comrades cautiously withdrew through the intense fire, he remained in his position to call for and adjust friendly artillery fire on the enemy emplacements. With complete disregard for his personal safety, he continued this fearless action until the enemy fire was silenced, thus enabling his comrades to reach the safety of friendly positions with a minimum of casualties. The gallantry in action and devotion to duty displayed by Sergeant Swango on this occasion reflects great credit upon himself and the military service.