The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant (Corps of Engineers) Karl F. Stark, United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company *, 13th Engineer Combat Battalion, 7th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy at Hoengsong, Korea, on 12th February 1951 and 13 February 1951. During this period, Lieutenant Stark and his engineer platoon were attached to a task force comprised of elements of the United Nations Forces. While supervising the construction of a pioneer road, which would allow the task force to withdraw from an enemy encirclement, the force was subjected to withering enemy fire. Lieutenant Stark, without regard for his own safety, moved forward encouraging and inspiring his men. When the units started their withdrawal, they were again ambushed and pinned down by heavy small arms fire. Lieutenant Start repeatedly exposed himself to the enemy while regrouping his platoon to return the enemy fire. After fighting their way out of the ambush, the task force was attacked a third time. Lieutenant Stark took command of the troops again and by his courageous action, the charge was repeated and the enemy forced to withdraw. Although wounded, Lieutenant Stark refused medical aid until all the wounded were treated and evacuated. The gallantry displayed by Lieutenant Stark on this occasion reflects great credit on himself and the military service.