The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting a Second Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Third Award of the Silver Star to Captain (Armor), [then First Lieutenant] Melvin N. Hulse (ASN: 0-885796), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of the Heavy Tank Company, 7th Infantry Regiment, 3d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy in Korea. On 15 December 1950, Captain Hulse, learning that Company G had been surrounded by an estimated 1000 enemy troops near Yong Gang-ni, Korea, immediately moved his tank platoon to the scene of action in an attempt to break the hostile encirclement and cover the withdrawal of the company. Nearing the beleaguered unit, the tanks were subjected to intense fire and, upon driving into position, were fanatically attacked by swarms of enemy soldiers. Heedless of his personal safety, throughout the entire attack Captain Hulse maintained an exposed position on his vehicle in order to effectively control the platoon’s fire and maneuver and direct an air strike upon the foe; he further exposed himself by dismounting and assisting wounded infantrymen onto his tank prior to withdrawing. Instrumental in repulsing the enemy with heavy losses and enabling Company G to withdraw from the encirclement, Captain Hulse’s tactical skill, personal gallantry, and courageous leadership reflect great credit upon himself and the military service.