The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Second Lieutenant (Field Artillery), [then Master Sergeant] Peter P. Stelmokas, United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Battery C, 49th Field Artillery Battalion, 7th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in near Hoengsong, Korea, on 12 February 1951. On this date, when a strong enemy force attacked a convoy of the 49th Field Artillery Battalion, intense automatic, small arms and mortar fire forced the convoy personnel to abandon their vehicles and seek cover. Lieutenant Stelmokas, on this occasion, exposed himself to enemy fire while he selected positions for flank security and led his men to them. After the positions were taken, he directed the emplacement of two machine guns to afford close support. When the positions were secure, Lieutenants Stelmokas directed the removal of damaged and destroyed vehicles to clear the road and allow the column to pass. Lieutenant Stelmokas’ heroic action was an inspiration to his men and reflects great credit on himself and the military service.