GENERAL ORDERS - NUMBER 225- 4 July 1953

 

AWARD OF THE BRONZE STAR MEDAL (POSTHUMOUS) - By direction of thePresident, under the provisions of Executive Order 9419, 4 February 1944 (Sec II, WD Bul 3, 1944), and pursuant to authority in AR 600-45, the Bronze Star Medal with Letter "V" device for heroic achievement in connection with military operations against an enemy of the United States is awarded posthumously to the following named enlisted men:

 

Private GERALD F. BAUMGARTNER, US55280753, Infantry, Company "G", 65th Infantry Regiment, 3d Infantry Division, United States Army. During the early morning hours of 16 May 1953, Private BAUMGARTNER, as a rifleman in Company "G", occupied a defensive position on outpost "Harry", in the vicinity of Surang-ni, Korea, when a reinforced company of hostile troops attacked. Prior to the attack, the enemy artillery units released an intense hail of mortar and artillery fire. Private BAUMGARTNER was occupying an exposed position throughout the attack and refused to leave displaying exceptional courage and aggressiveness. This served as an inspiration to his comrades and increased the morale of his unit to greater combat effectiveness. From his position, he could advantageously observe the enemy troops and inform his superiors of changes in tactics. When an enemy shell made a direct hit upon Private BAUMGARTNER'S position, he was mortally wounded. Private BAUMGARTNER'S outstanding heroism and devotion to duty reflect great credit upon himself and the military service. Entered the Federal Service from Illinois.