COLONEL HAROLD P. MUELLER, then Second Lieutenant, Company F, 21st Infantry Regiment, 24th Infantry Division, United States Army, Distinguished himself by displaying extraordinary heroism in action against the enemy near Chowang-ni, Korea on 20 January 1951. While leading a forty man reconnaissance patrol deep into enemy territory, Lieutenant Mueller was fired on by an estimated enemy platoon. He withdrew his pistol a short distance to the south and from a more advantageous defensive position engaged the enemy, destroying twenty of the attacking force and causing them to withdraw. At this time a force of approximately seven hundred Chinese Communists launched a series of “banzai” attacks which lasted throughout the day. Lieutenant Mueller established a perimeter where he directed the fire against the superior enemy force, causing heavy casualties and forcing the enemy to make repeated withdrawls. Although he was twice wounded during the six “banzai” attacks upon his platoon’s position, he continued to check the position of his men, distribute ammunition and direct the fire of his automatic weapons. In the midst of the heaviest fighting Lieutenant Mueller found time to comfort and aid the wounded, assuring them that he would lead them to safety. Lieutenant Mueller’s courage, confidence, and superior leadership enabled the patrol to inflict heavy casualties upon the enemy, killing two hundred and wounding an additional estimated two hundred Chinese Communists. The extraordinary heroism displayed by Lieutenant Mueller reflects great credit on himself and the military service.

COL Mueller resides in Virginia.