The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Colonel (Infantry) George Conrad Mergens (ASN: 0-15300), United States Army, for gallantry in action as Commanding Officer of the 23d Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy on 19 and 23 July 1952 in the vicinity of Chorwon, Korea. On 19 July 1952 Colonel Mergens’ Regiment was engaged in vicious fighting to hold Hill 266, better known as “Old Baldy”. During the counterattack launched by the 3d Battalion and after the Battalion Commander was wounded, Colonel Mergens reorganized one platoon of Company K under intense mortar fire which it had received before reaching the Line of Departure. He then accompanied the platoon to the jump off positions for its attack on “Baldy”. Colonel Mergens continually exposed himself to danger to urge the men forward. Again on 23 July during the Chinese counterattack, Colonel Mergens remained with his forward command group in an advanced position. During the next 24 hours the enemy subjected his position and adjacent friendly troops to one of the most devastating artillery concentrations of the war. In his position as Regimental Commander, Colonel Mergens was conspicuous by his courageous conduct and utter disregard for his own safety. These acts of gallantry displayed by Colonel Mergens reflect great credit upon himself and the military service.