The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Sergeant George C. Balchunas (MCSN: 959454), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as a Leader of an 81-mm. Mortar Section of Weapons Company, First Battalion, Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 26 November 1950. Returning to his battalion position after leading his section in supporting a rifle company on patrol in the mountains southwest of Yudam-ni, Sergeant Balchunas volunteered to lead a party of stretcher bearers back up the mountains to contact the ambushed rifle company and assist in evacuating the wounded. Although almost frozen and exhausted at the outset of his mission, he led the group over four miles of hazardous enemy-held mountain terrain, covered with snow and ice, in sub-zero weather and total darkness. By his indomitable courage and unselfish efforts, he was responsible for the early evacuation of the casualties thereby saving the lives of many seriously wounded Marines. In addition, he assisted in guiding the rifle company down the dangerous mountain side, and contributed materially in its safe return to the battalion. His initiative and inspiring devotion to duty served to encourage his comrades to greater efforts, thereby reflecting the highest credit upon Sergeant Balchunas and the United States Naval Service.