GENERAL ORDERS - NUMBER 168 - 4 June 1953

 

    AWARD OF THE BRONZE STAR MEDAL - By direction of the President, 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 to the following named enlisted men: 

   Private First Class RICHARD W. SPARKS, US56127903, Infantry, Company "G", 65th Infantry Regiment, 3d Infantry Division, United States Army. During the early morning hours of 16 May 1953, Company "G", holding a defensive position on Outpost "Harry", in the vicinity of Songnae-dong, Korea, was subjected to an intense artillery and mortar shelling prior to a attack by hostile forces. In front of friendly lines lay an ammunition dump supplying the company with supplies necessary for defending the outpost. This vital supply point was hit by an enemy artillery barrage, strewing wreckage and personnel over the entire area. Private SPARKS completely disregarding his personnel safety, volunteered to clear the wreckage and restore the critical supply of ammunition. While performing this mission under relentless enemy fire, he came upon wounded comrades. He carried these men to shelter where they could be treated, and kept returning to evacuate other fellow soldiers. He continually worked in this exposed position until the enemy ceased their attack and withdrew. Private SPARK'S outstanding heroism and devotion to duty reflect great credit upon himself and the military service. Entered the Federal service from California.

Source: Record Group 338: General Orders 3^rd Infantry Division, Boxes 129 to 131

 National Archives and Records Administration, College Park, Maryland.