The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private Loren D. Ybanez (ASN: RA-19361125), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company K, 3d Battalion, 15th Infantry Regiment, 3d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy in Korea. On the night of 4 August 1952, the first platoon of Company K was assigned the mission to assault an enemy-held position near Chiro-dong, Korea, and to capture a prisoner for intelligence purposes. As the assault element moved into position, Private Ybanez, a machine gunner, noticed an enemy machine gun emplacement. Unhesitatingly, he placed his machine gun on his hip and holding the barrel with his bare hand, he fired upon the hostile group. During the ensuing battle, Private Ybanez reorganized the weapon squad and gave covering fire as they returned to the base of the hill. When the platoon was ordered to assault the objective a second time, he held the hot machine gun barrel as he gave supporting fire to the assault element. When ordered to break contact with the enemy, he refused medical aid until the more seriously wounded had been treated. Private Ybanez’ heroism and determination to accomplish his mission reflects great credit upon himself and the military service.