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 Corporal Ivan Earl Swingle (ASN: US-52058360), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company C, 1st Battalion, 19th Infantry Regiment, 24th Infantry Division, near Korisil, Korea, on 14 October 1951. His platoon had the mission of attacking and securing an enemy-occupied objective. As the friendly troops approached the top of the hill, they were pinned down by intensely concentratedfire from enemy mortars located on the reverse slope. Immediately perceiving the situation, Corporal Swingle, armed with grenades and rifle, fearlessly moved forward over the top. With complete disregard for his own safety, he charged the mortar position exposing himself to the intense automatic weapons fire and grenades that were blasting around him as he ran. Deliberately using himself as a decoy, he drew all firepower upon himself, thereby enabling the remainder of the platoon to advance. Coming into full view of the emplacement, he threw a grenade into it, completely destroying the position and killing the mortar crew. Seconds later, he was mortally wounded by small arms fire. Corporal Swingle’s courageous action, aggressive initiative and self-sacrificing performance of a task far beyond the call of duty contributed immeasurably to the success of his unit’s mission, reflect the highest credit on himself and are in keeping with the honored traditions of the United States Infantry.