The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant (Infantry). [then Second Lieutenant] Earle M. Welch (ASN: 0-61289), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company C, 38th Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy on 24 September 1950 in the vicinity of Hyopchon, Korea. On that date Lieutenant Welch, a rifle platoon leader, was given the mission of securing and holding Hill 191 against the determined opposition of well-entrenched enemy forces. During the assault the platoon received intense enemy machine gun and automatic weapons fire. Skillfully maneuvering his platoon through the hostile field of fire, he led them to the crest of the hill. He then daringly led a grenade charge which forced the enemy to withdraw, leaving fifteen dead and many weapons behind. During the final assault Lieutenant Welch, with complete disregard for his personal safety, moved each time to where the fighting was fiercest. His inspirational leadership and skillful handling of his troops and fire power enabled his battalion to continue its pursuit of the retreating enemy without allowing them opportunity to organize defensive positions. The gallantry and superb leadership demonstrated on this occasion by Lieutenant Welch reflect great credit upon himself and are in keeping with the fine traditions of the military service.