The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private First Class Michael Duane Betthauser (MCSN: 606451), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as a member of a 4.2″ Mortar Company of the Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), during operations against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 2 November 1950. During a fierce counterattack by a numerically superior enemy force employing small arms, machine guns and hand grenades, Private First Class Betthauser steadfastly remained at his mortar position and engaged the overrunning hostile troops in hand-to-hand combat until mortally wounded. By his aggressive fighting spirit, determination and unfaltering devotion to duty throughout, Private First Class Betthauser served to inspire all who observed him and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.