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 Gunther E. Kromrei (ASN: RA-16399840), United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with the 223d Infantry Regiment, 40th Infantry Division, in action in the Punch Bowl, Korea, on 16 June 1953. When a numerically superior enemy force attacked his platoon’s positions, Sergeant Kromrei was in the direct avenue of approach. As the enemy began to infiltrate the trenches of his company, Sergeant Kromrei unleashed a murderous fire into the onrushing enemy in bitter hand-to-hand combat. During the heat of the battle, Sergeant Kromrei was instrumental in the evacuation of friendly casualties, thereby being directly responsible for saving the lives of many of his comrades. The superior bravery displayed by Sergeant Kromrei inflicted innumerable casualties on the enemy and prevented a serious breakthrough, thereby saving the lives of many friendly soldiers. Sergeant Kromrei’s complete disregard for his gallant performance and his inspiring devotion to duty reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.