The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, 20 July 1942, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Colonel [then Lieutenant Colonel] Henri E. J. Dumoncel, Army of the Republic of France, for gallantry in action as temporary commanding officer of the French Ground Forces of the United Nations, in action against an armed enemy in Korea from 7 January to 31 May 1951. During the successive battles at Wonju, he was constantly in the thick of battle at the most forward elements of his forces, directing fire support and centering accurate artillery fire on the strong enemy fortifications. His superior direction of supporting fires was a major contributing factor to the success of friendly forces at Wonju. Again at Twin Tunnels, Chipyong-ni, his display of personal courage and heroic leadership was a source of great inspiration and encouragement to all who served under him and spurred the men of his command to take their objectives at any cost. He gave impetus to the French Forces in the attack on the heavily defended Hill 1037, in the offensive actions which took place from Munbang-Ni to Pass 255, from Pass 255 to Umyand-ni to Inje. The gallant conduct of Colonel Dumoncel throughout this period reflects great credit on himself and the military service.