George T. Kokoliadis

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to George T. Kokoliadis (RA11184063), Sergeant First Class, U.S. Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company E, 2d Battalion, 65th Infantry Regiment, 3d Infantry Division. On the night of 14 June 1953, in the vicinity of Sagimak, Korea, Company E launched a assault on enemy held Hill 412. Sergeant First Class (then Sergeant) Kokoliadis was the leader of a squad forming a section of the assault element. As they approached the objective, the men came under intense enemy mortar, artillery and small arms fire and suffered several casualties. Although wounded in the action, he refused to be evacuated but, through words and actions, created a high spirit of aggressiveness and morale in the remaining members of his depleted squad. As his comrades fell wounded, he directed their evacuation to places of comparative safety. When his platoon leader was rendered a casualty, Sergeant Kokoliadis moved to his aid. Weakened from his wounds, he was unable to evacuate the officer, but remained there and administered aid and comfort to him until assistance arrived. While guarding the Lieutenant, he mortally wounded four enemy soldiers who attempted to close in on them. Shortly afterwards, friendly troops arrived and Sergeant Kokoliadis helped in the evacuation of his wounded leader. Sergeant Kokoliadis’ outstanding gallantry and devotion to duty reflect great credit upon himself and the military service.