The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class Mario E. Yedlowski (MCSN: 660229), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as a Runner of Company D, Second Battalion, First Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 20 September 1950. During the night, when a well-coordinated enemy tank-infantry attack penetrated the battalion forward defense positions and pressed through to his company area, Private First Class Yedlowski voluntarily exposed himself to intense hostile fire, moving to a position approximately five yards from the lead vehicle of the motor column. Observing that the lead vehicle was an ammunition truck, he unhesitatingly tossed a hand grenade, which resulted in the destruction of the truck and the subsequent illumination of the entire area, giving friendly troops the opportunity to observe their targets and launch a successful counterattack. By his daring initiative, he contributed materially to the resultant destruction of two enemy tanks and the rout of the hostile troops with severe casualties. Private First Class Yedlowski’s outstanding courage and loyal devotion to duty in the face of grave personal risk were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.