The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant Colonel (Field Artillery) Robert Edward Panke (ASN: 0-23831), United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a member of Headquarters, 57th Field Artillery Battalion, 7th Infantry Division, in action near Sokkogae, Korea. On 21 March 1953, friendly artillery bunkers had been damaged and the hill on which Colonel Panke’s battalion was located was receiving heavy enemy artillery fire. Realizing the importance of first hand knowledge of the situation, Colonel Panke exposed himself to the enemy fire in order to make a physical reconnaissance of the artillery observation posts. At one of the outposts, Colonel Panke aided the observer to call in effective fire on the enemy. On his way to another outpost, Colonel Panke ignored the incoming shells in the trench area and made a full appraisal of the damage to the bunkers before returning to a position of comparative safety. Colonel Panke’s consistent disregard for existing danger, outstanding contribution to the tactical situation, and evident eagerness for a complete analysis of the existing situation were an inspiration to all the officers and men who witnessed his actions. The gallantry displayed by Colonel Panke reflects great credit to himself and is in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service.