Herman W. Dammer

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Herman W. Dammer (0-30634), Lieutenant Colonel (Infantry), U.S. Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as Commanding Officer of the 2d Battalion, 65th Infantry Regiment, 3d Infantry Division. On 19 February 1951, near Kodong-ni, Korea, the 2d Battalion, 65th Infantry, was attacking well defended enemy positions. During the six hour attack on the heavily defended, steep mountain, Colonel Dammer on numerous occasions, with complete disregard for his own safety, exposed himself to enemy small arms, automatic weapons, mortar, and artillery fire. Assuming a position with the leading rifle company in the attack, he effectively coordinated the fire and maneuver of his entire command. On one occasion, exposing himself to a heavy mortar and artillery barrage, he called effective counter battery fire upon the enemy positions. Colonel Dammer’s gallantry, outstanding leadership, and aggressive actions were an inspiration to the officers and men whom he led and reflect the highest credit upon himself and the military service.