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Department of the Army
General Orders No. 53 - 9 July 1954
Private First Class Edward W. Labossiere, Infantry, United States Army, a member of Company C, 19th Infantry Regiment, 24th Infantry Division, distinguished himself by heroic conduct in action against the enemy, near Anju, Korea, on 4 November 1950. His unit occupied positions on a small hill which was dominated by strong enemy positions located on commanding terrain features overlooking friendly defenses. Hostile forces launched a strong, determined assault, attacking from the rear, delivering extremely heavy small-arms and automatic-weapons fire. Private Labossiere quickly moved his mortar from its prepared position to an exposed position from which he promptly opened deadly accurate fire on the attacking forces, carefully selecting targets to effect the greatest number of enemy casualties. Without regard for his personal safety, he continued to deliver effective fire until the ammunition was exhausted, at which time he destroyed his weapon to prevent its falling into enemy hands. Private Labossier's courageous action and devotion to duty reflect credit on himself and the military.
Headquarters, 2nd Infantry Division
General Orders No. 393 - 3 August 1951
Private First Class John V. Lacey, RA13164145, Armor, United States Army, a member of Company A, 72d Tank Battalion, 2d Infantry Division, distinguished himself by heroic achievement near Agok, Korea on 31 August 1950. On this occasion Private Lacey was a member of a tank crew located in a blocking position overlooking the Naktong River. During the night an overwhelming enemy force attacked and quickly overran adjacent infantry positions. From the surrounded tank Private Lacey fought over nine hours before retiring some eight miles to new friendly positions. As a result of this action an estimated 250 enemy were killed and the enemy was delayed long enough to allow friendly units to complete their withdrawal. The courage and devotion to duty displayed by Private Lacey reflects great credit upon himself and the military service. Entered the military service from Pennsylvania.
Headquarters, 40th Infantry Division
General Orders No. 196 - 12 August 1952
Private First Class Joseph A. LaChapelle, RA11228113, Army Medical Service, United States Army, 223rd Infantry Regiment, distinguished himself by heroic achievement near Kumsong, Korea on 13 April 1952. During an intense enemy mortar barrage on his platoon's outpost positions, two of Private LaChapelle's comrades were wounded by a direct hit upon a bunker used for storing hand grenades and ammunition. Immediately upon notification of what took place, Private LaChapelle rushed over exposed terrain to the blazing bunker. Courageously, Private LaChapelle and another medical aidman began administering first aid to the wounded. Though the heat of the burning bunker began setting off fragmentation and white phosphorous grenades, Private LaChapelle was undaunted. By remaining in the extremely hazardous position, and administering effective first aid to a comrade whose leg had been severed, Private LaChapelle was directly responsible for saving his life. When another call for aid came, Private LaChapelle, oblivious of the great personal danger involved, again crossed the exposed area to give medical attention. The sustained selfless devotion to duty, bravery and ability exhibited by Private LaChapelle were inspiration to his comrades and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army. Entered the Federal service from Connecticut.
Partial citation (for the period 29 January to 21 December): Besides traveling over hazardous terrain in subzero weather to minister to his own men, the chaplain directed the members of his congregation in helping the orphans of the area and assisted in providing aid to 2 destitute orphanages with a total enrollment of approximately 250 children, thereby implementing the work of agencies concerned with creating a strong feeling of friendship to to those in need.
Headquarters, 3rd Infantry Division
General Orders No. 490 - 25 October 1951
Infantry, Headquarters, 3d Infantry Division, United States Army, 3 February to 18 October 1951, in Korea. Entered the military service from the State of Connecticut.
Headquarters, 2nd Infantry Division
General Orders No. 25 - 29 January 1951
The Bronze Star Medal with V Device is awarded to Sergeant George E. LaMere, RA39616876, Infantry, United States Army, a member of Company E, 9 Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, who distinguished himself by heroic achievement on 26 November 1950 near Kunu-ri, Korea. On the morning of this date he was a member of a platoon whose defensive positions on a hill were under attack by a strong enemy force. During the attack, his platoon leader was wounded by an enemy hand grenade. With no thought for his own safety, Sergeant LaMere exposed himself to the intense enemy small arms and mortar fire to evacuate the wounded officer. He picked up the wounded man and carried him through the enemy down the long steep slope of the hill until he reached the company aid station. As a result of his quick fearless action, the life of the wounded officer was undoubtedly saved. This courageous act was a source of tremendous inspiration to all members of his unit. The heroism displayed by Sergeant LaMere reflects great credit upon himself and the Armed Forces of the United States. Entered military service from Montana.
Partial citation: Continually seeking ways to aid Korean civilians, he instigated and supervised the construction and furnishing of a new orphanage building to house 150 destitute Korean children. His ceaseless endeavors permitted the purchase of rice land for hungry Koreans and the delivery of tons of clothing and toys to needy civilians in the combat zone. Dedicated to the humanitarian principles embodied in the precept of his faith, his activities resulted directly in greater health, comfort and welfare for hundreds of helpless Korean families and orphans, and enhanced goodwill for all United Nations forces.
For conspicuous gallantry and outstanding courage above and beyond the call of duty in action against the enemy on the 17th of January 1952 near Pia-ri, Korea. SFC Lanier, a member of Company C, distinguished himself when the enemy sent wave after wave of fanatical troops against his platoon, which held a key terrain feature on "Heartbreak Ridge". Valiantly defending its position, the unit repulsed each attack until ammunition became practically exhausted and it was ordered to withdraw to a new position. Voluntarily remaining behind to cover the withdrawal, SFC Lanier fired his automatic weapon into the ranks of the assailants, threw all his grenades and, with ammunition exhausted, he closed with the foe in hand-to-hand combat, courageously fighting with his trench knife and bare fists. When the position was subsequently retaken, more than 40 enemy dead were counted in the area he had so valiantly defended. His heroic devotion to duty, indomitable fighting spirit, and gallant self-sacrifice reflect the highest credit upon himself, the infantry and the United States Army.
Headquarters, 3rd Infantry Division
General Orders No. 490 - 25 October 1951
Infantry, Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 2d Battalion, 7th Infantry, 3d Infantry Division, United States Army, 17 June to 1 November 1951, in Korea. Entered the military service from the State of Mississippi. General Orders No. 490, 25 October 1951.
Headquarters, 25th Infantry Division
General Orders No. 253 - 28 October 1950
Private Delmer L. Large, RA15346565, Infantry, Company A, 29th Infantry, United States Army. When Company A was attacking in the vicinity of Haman, Korea on 18 August 1950, the squad with which Private Large was serving was temporarily halted by concerted hostile fire from commanding positions. Observing that one of the men was wounded and dying in an exposed position, Private Large moved across open terrain through the heavy concentrations of enemy fire and while assisting the wounded man was himself seriously wounded. Private Large's outstanding courage, initiative and unselfish regard for the welfare of his comrades are in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Army. Entered the military service from Virginia.
Headquarters, 2nd Infantry Division
General Orders No. 110 - 17 May 1951
The Bronze Star Medal with V Device is awarded to Private First Class Loren J. LaRocque, ER17215667, Infantry, Army of the United States, a member of Company H, 38th Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, who distinguished himself by heroic achievement on 21 March 1951 in the vicinity of Sogong-ni, Korea. The light machine gun squad led by Private LaRocque was attached to a rifle company which was attacking enemy high ground. When the company came under intense automatic weapons and small arms fire, he courageously exposed himself to direct supporting fire upon the enemy. When his gunner was killed, he manned the machine gun and continued to lay down a base of fire until he was wounded. Despite a painful head wound, Private LaRocque refused to be evacuated and continued to cover the withdrawal of the company to a more favorable positions. The heroism displayed by Private LaRocque reflects great credit upon himself and the military service. Entered the military service from Grand Forks County, North Dakota.
Headquarters, 2nd Infantry Division
General Orders No. 30 - 26 January 1953
The Bronze Star Medal with V Device is awarded to Private First Class Ulo Laur, RA16278103, Infantry, United States Army, Headquarters and Headquarters Company, (attached to the Raider Platoon), 23d Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, who distinguished himself by heroism in action on 27 September 1952, in the vicinity of Chorwon, North Korea. On that date, Private Laur was a member of a volunteer combat patrol which was on a mission to infiltrate approximately four thousand yards behind enemy lines, inflict casualties and take a prisoner. Shortly after the initial contact with the enemy was made, Private Laur was wounded in the leg by enemy grenade fragments which knocked him down and momentarily stunned him. Refusing evacuation, Private Laur, with complete disregard for personal safety, continued in the charge up the hill delivering accurate and effective fire. Reaching an enemy communication trench, he first sprayed its occupants with a deadly hail of fire, inflicting numerous casualties, and then advanced down the trench toward the nucleus of the fire fight. The savageness of his advance had a demoralizing effect upon the hostile forces and caused them to give ground. When the raid was completed and the order to withdraw was given, Private Laur, completely ignoring his own wounds, picked up a wounded comrade and carried him through the intense hail of enemy fire to a place of relative safety. The selfless and heroic actions displayed by Private Laur reflect great credit upon himself and the military service. Entered the Federal service from Nebraska.
Headquarters 7th Infantry Division
General Orders No. 263 - 29 May 1953
Private First Class Ronald E. Lavish, US55252860, Infantry, United States Army, a member of Company E, 31st Infantry, distinguished himself by heroic achievement near Sokkogae, Korea. On 17 April 1953, the enemy began attacking positions held by the unit of which Private Lavish was a member. During the ensuing action, while Private Lavish was operating the switchboard in the command post, the position was in danger of being overrun by the hostile troops. Joining the other members of the staff, Private lavish immediately rushed out to defend the position. With no regard for his personal safety, Private Lavish, by his accurate and devastating fire, inflicted numerous casualties among the enemy and contributed immeasurably to the successful defense of the position. The heroic action of Private Lavish reflects great credit on himself and the military service. Entered the Federal service from Illinois.
Headquarters, 25th Infantry Division
General Orders No. 231 - 18 October 1950
Sergeant (then Private First Class) Billy G. Layman, RA17264024, Armor, Company A, 89th Medium Tank Battalion, United States Army. During the period 2 August to 10 August 1950 in the early critical phase of the Korean conflict, Sergeant (then Private First Class) Layman rendered outstanding service as a member of a vehicle recovery crew. By opportunely repairing a damaged tank in enemy territory despite intense small arms and mortar fire, a tank attack route was cleared. By expeditiously recovering another tank from a collapsed bridge under heavy enemy fire an additional critical vehicle was restored to action. Sergeant Layman's courageous devotion to duty and technical acumen are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service. Entered the military service from Missouri.
Headquarters, 25th Infantry Division
General Orders No. 231 - 18 October 1950
Headquarters, 2nd Infantry Division
General Orders No. 121 - 27 May 1951
The Bronze Star Medal with V Device is awarded to Sergeant Clarence P. Leadingcloud, RA17244962, (then Corporal), Infantry, United States Army, a member of Company K, 38th Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, who distinguished himself by heroic achievement on 15 March 1951 in the vicinity of Yulsil-li, Korea. During an attack on an enemy-held hill, Sergeant Leadingcloud volunteered to establish contact with an adjacent platoon after all communication wires had been knocked out and another runner had been killed by the intense enemy fire. Moving forward, he dashed through particularly heavy concentrations of enemy fire and finally succeeded in reaching his objective. Upon being informed that his platoon was to draw back to make way for an air strike upon the enemy positions, he immediately returned through the intense hostile fire with the vital information. The heroism displayed by Sergeant Leadingcloud reflects great credit upon himself and the military service. Entered the military service from Nebraska.
Headquarters, 2nd Infantry Division
General Orders No. 104 - 11 May 1951
The Bronze Star Medal with V Device is awarded to Sergeant Arthur G. LeBeane, RA55000560, Artillery, United States Army, a member of Battery C, 15th Field Artillery Battalion, 2d Infantry Division, who distinguished himself by heroic achievement on 12 February 1951 in the vicinity of Changbong-ni, Korea. Sergeant LeBeane was chief of a section of a 105mm howitzer which was under attack by a large enemy force. Despite heavy enemy fire directed at his gun section Sergeant LeBeane remained at his post. When the order to march was given, he deployed two men armed with a machine gun on his flank while the rest of the crew assembled all equipment and march ordered the piece. Due to his calmness and efficient leadership under fire, his howitzer section was moved without loss of men or equipment. As the battery displaced rearward, the column was halted by an enemy attack on the lead vehicles of the convoy which were captured by the enemy. Sergeant LeBeane immediately set up his howitzer for direct fire on the hills adjacent to the road. With the aid of the battery's other howitzer sections, the enemy assaults were warded off with heavy losses. Time after time Sergeant LeBeane exposed himself to enemy mortar, automatic weapons and small arms fire in order to direct fire and to carry ammunition to his gun. His courageous actions greatly aided in preventing the enemy from capturing the remaining vehicles. The heroism displayed by Sergeant LeBeane reflects great credit upon himself and the military service. Entered the military service from Illinois.
Headquarters, 24th Infantry Division
General Orders No. 72 - August 07, 1950
Private First Class Robert E. Lee, RA15266685, Infantry, United States Army, a member of Company L, 34th Infantry Regiment, 24th Infantry Division, is awarded the Bronze Star for heroic achievement on 8 July 1950, at Chonan, Korea. When the Third Battalion was forced to withdraw from the town, it encountered a road block which was holding up the movement. Private Lee voluntarily manned an abandoned .50 caliber machinegun and destroyed the weapons in the enemy road block. Due to this heroic action, he Battalion was able to continue with its retrograde movement. Private Lee brought great credit to himself and to the military service. Entered the military service from Cleveland, Ohio.
Headquarters 24th Infantry Division
General Orders No. 51 - 22 July 1950
Master Sergeant Paul W. Legg, RA 6584624, Infantry, a member of Company M, 21st Infantry Regiment, 24th Infantry Division, is awarded the Bronze Star Medal for heroic achievement in action against an armed enemy on 10 July 1950 near Chochiwan, Korea. In the early morning hours before light, Sergeant Legg became aware that the enemy was infiltrating into the position held by the 3rd Battalion, 21st Infantry Regiment. He left the safety of his foxhole and personally alerted the men of his Company CP, 75MM Rifles, and Mortar Platoon, pointing out enemy positions within 100 yards. At dawn the enemy assaulted. When a tank and a small field piece began firing into the Battalion CP, the Aid Station, and into rifle positions, Sergeant Legg, realizing that communication would be lost, set up a new Company CP location and led the personnel to it. Again the enemy penetrated behind the lines and attacked the CP of Company M by direct fire. With all battalion installations neutralized the enemy had destroyed all communications. Knowing this condition to exist Sergeant Legg moved members of the CP group to the mortar positions which the enemy was attacking. There he directed fire against the enemy until it became apparent the enemy would over-run the position. Master Sergeant Legg then organized and led the remaining men to safety. Sergeant Legg moving under heavy small arms fire went forward and personally carried a wounded officer to a defiladed position where he could be evacuated by the medics. By his determined efforts and leadership he was able to delay the enemy and to prevent others from being killed or captured. His fearless example reflects great credit on himself and the Military Service.
Headquarters, 25th Infantry Division
General Orders No. 203 - 27 September 1950
First Lieutenant (then Second Lieutenant) Jacques R. LeMaresquier, 0967877, Infantry, Company G, 27th Infantry, United States Army. On the evening of 13 August 1950, the company had entrucked near Masan, Korea, preparatory to movement to reserve status. Suddenly hostile shells fell into the area, wounding several men and causing the rest to disperse. Lieutenant LeMaresquier quickly attended to the wounded, supervised their care, then rallied the company, moved it to another area and effectively directed its safe withdrawal as originally planned. The calm, courageous leadership and sound judgment displayed by Lieutenant LeMaresquier served as an inspiring example to his men and reflect great credit on himself and the United States Army. Entered the military service from New York.
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Bronze Star Medal with Combat "V" to Sergeant John Lennox (ASN: RA-12339195), United States Army, for heroic achievement as a member of Battery A, 105th Field Artillery Battalion, 3d Infantry Division. On 22 March 1951, Sergeant Lennox was a member of an artillery forward observer team which was supporting a Belgian platoon in the defense of Hill 155 near Singongne, Korea. When the enemy launched a fierce surprise attack against the hill positions, Sergeant Lennox covered the forward observer's movements to the radio position. Although his rifle jammed, he obtained another and continued his covering fire until it also failed to operate. Running from his position to that of a wounded Belgian soldier, Sergeant Lennox armed himself with the Belgian's weapon and several hand grenades and dashed to the crest of the hill, shouting encouragement to the friendly troops while delivering intense fire upon the enemy. During the ensuing action, he unhesitatingly went to the aid of a stricken comrade, rendering first aid and alleviating the suffering of the fallen soldier. Sergeant Lennox's heroic actions reflect great credit upon himself and the military service.
Headquarters, 25th Infantry Division
General Orders No. 139 - 10 September 1950
Private First Class Harry G. Leonard, RA13338584, Infantry, Company A, 27th Infantry, United States Army. On 2 August 1950 near Chindong-ni, Korea, Private First Class Leonard and three other enlisted men discovered a medium tank, the turret of which had been damaged by an enemy antitank gun. Although he was unfamiliar with the operation of a tank, Private First Class Leonard assisted in returning it to the battalion area. When the enemy attacked the following morning, Private First Class Leonard, acting as crewman with the three others as driver, gunner and crewman, moved the tank into position and directed fire on the attacking forces, notwithstanding the hazards of an open turret. When the 76mm gun jammed, the crew moved the tank around the perimeter directing 30 and 50 calibre machine gun fire on the enemy, until all ammo had been expended. While seeking more ammunition he had to abandon the tank when the turret jammed and the tank was set afire. By their bold and ingenious actions, Private First Class Leonard and the crew had destroyed two hostile machine gun positions and inflicted numerous casualties on the enemy. The resourcefulness, initiative and courage of Private First Class Leonard reflect the greatest credit on himself and the military service. Entered the military service from West Virginia.
Headquarters, 3ID
General Orders No. 100 - 12 December 1950
Private Joseph L. Lescantz, RA19307500, Medical Company, 15th Infantry Regiment, 3d Infantry Division, United States Army, is awarded the Bronze Star Medal for gallantry in action against an armed enemy near Rokhoo-Pyong, Korea, on 19 November 1950. Private Lescantz was an aid man attached to a reinforced rifle platoon on a combat patrol when the forward observer of the 4.2" mortar platoon was seriously wounded in his right leg, severing an artery. Private Lescantz, with no regard for his own personal safety, dashed to the wounded man, carried him through enemy fire to a slightly covered position. There it was necessary to stop and treat the wound as the wounded man was in grave danger from loss of blood. Placing the wounded man behind a small boulder, Private Lescantz applied a tourniquet pressure dressing and administered plasma, resulting in saving the man's life, while he, himself, was constantly under fire. The courageous action and gallantry displayed by Private Lescantz relates great credit on himself and the military service.
General Orders No. 456 - 27 July 1953. Bronze Star for Meritorious Service with the Ordnance Corps, 15 September 1952 to 27 July 1953. Entered the Federal service from Pennsylvania.
Headquarters, 2nd Infantry Division
General Orders No. 71 - 1 April 1951
The Bronze Star Medal with V Device is awarded to Sergeant John H. Lewis, RA35655983, Infantry, United States Army, a member of Tank Company, 38th Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, who distinguished himself by heroic achievement on 12 February 1951 in the vicinity of Hoengsong, Korea. Sergeant Lewis was acting as runner for his company commander who was leading a tank-infantry force on a mission to break through hostile lines, establish contact with two rifle battalions that had been cut off and lead the battalions to friendly lines. In order to maintain liaison between the task force commander and the various elements of the column, Sergeant Lewis unhesitantly exposed himself to the intense hostile fire sweeping the route of advance. When the task force had established contact with the cut-off units and was leading them back through the heavy screen of enemy fire, Sergeant Lewis again exposed himself, with complete disregard for his personal safety, to load the many wounded along the road on passing vehicles. The heroism displayed by Sergeant Lewis reflects great credit upon himself and the military service. Entered the military service from Kentucky.
Headquarters, 25th Infantry Division
General Orders No. 234 - 19 October 1950
Corporal Leroy L. Lewis, RA3811523, Army Medical Service, Medical Company, 24th Infantry, United States Army. From 28 July to 1 September 1950, as a member of a battalion medical company in combat during the extremely difficult days of the Korean conflict, Corporal Lewis served with distinction. His untiring efforts to provide care for the patients in his aid station despite severe handicaps of limited facilities and equipment, and often under intense automatic weapons, mortar and sniper fire, greatly assisted the battalion surgeon in the savings of numerous lives. Corporal Lewis's courageous devotion to duty, initiative and technical knowledge reflect the greatest credit upon himself and the Army Medical Service. Entered the military service from Texas.
Partial citation: He supervised the construction and furnishing of [a] chapel where he instituted regular classes in religious instruction, and often led services for congregations of other religious denominations when chaplains for those faiths were committed elsewhere in the forward area. Sparing no efforts to aid the less fortunate in the war-torn country, he participated in the establishment of two separate orphanages for helpless Korean children and was largely responsible for the creation of the United States Marine Memorial Children's Clinic designated to provide advance medical care for destitute women and children in the vicinity of Pohang. In addition, he was instrumental in the purchase of rice land for hungry Koreans and in the delivery of tons of clothing and toys to needy civilians in the combat zone. By his inspiring efforts, resourceful initiative and unswerving devotion to duty, Lieutenant Junior Grade Lineberger directly aided in increasing the health, comfort, and welfare of hundreds of helpless Korean families and orphans and contributed materially to the overall morale and efficiency of the two Marine Aircraft Groups.
Sergeant First Class Harold A. Lloyd, RA39733005, Infantry, United States Army, Company "H", 38th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Infantry Division, distinguished himself by meritorious service from 20 November 1952 to 9 November 1953. During that period Sergeant Lloyd served as Patrol and Desk Sergeant, 2nd Military Police Company and Platoon Leader, 81mm mortar section, Company "H", 38th Infantry Regiment. As Desk Sergeant he displayed a complete knowledge of administrative matters and worked long and arduous hours to insure a high standard of operational efficiency. His enthusiasm for his job and devotion to duty contributed greatly to the effective operation of the section. Sergeant Lloyd continuously displayed unusual coolness when fire missions were required, setting an example that was directly responsible for the high morale of the men under his command. He continually displayed a high degree of initiative and sound judgment which resulted in increased tactical proficiency. The services rendered by Sergeant Lloyd reflect great credit upon himself and the military service.
Headquarters, 2nd Infantry Division
General Orders Nol. 15 - 20 January 1951
The Bronze Star Medal with V Device is awarded to Private First Class Arthur I. Lockrem, RA17256634, (then Private), Infantry, United States Army, a member of Tank Company, 38th Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, who distinguished himself by heroic achievement on 26 November to 30 November 1950 in the vicinity of Unbong-don, Korea. During this period, his unit was assigned the mission of evacuating wounded personnel and of penetrating a roadblock in order to extricate trapped and surrounded rifle elements. Throughout this period, because of the difficult terrain and blackout requirements for night operations, Private Lockrem operated his tank with the driver's hatch open. Disregarding the intense hostile mortar, rocket and small arms fire to which he was constantly exposed, he performed his duties in a superior manner and contributed greatly to the successful accomplishment of his company's mission. The heroism of Private Lockrem reflects great credit upon himself and the military service. Entered the military service from North Dakota.
Headquarters, 2nd Infantry Division
General Orders No. 167 - 16 June 1951
The Bronze Star Medal with V Device is awarded to Private First Class Merlen T. Loken, ER17264441, Artillery, Army of the United States, a member of Battery A, 82nd Anti-Aircraft Artillery Automatic Weapons Battalion (Self-Propelled), 2d Infantry Division, who distinguished himself by gallantry in action against an armed enemy in the vicinity of Inje, Korea on 28 May 1951. On this date the M-16 Combat Vehicle, of which he was the driver, was attached to the 38th Infantry Regiment for close ground support. As his unit was going North towards Inje, they ran into a large group of enemy which were holding high ground on both sides of the road. In the fire fight that followed, his vehicle was knocked out by enemy fire, and the crew members were forced to take cover in a ditch by the road. Private Loken, with utter disregard for his own safety, left the safety of the ditch and ran approximately twenty yards across open terrain to return to the vehicle. While he was working on his vehicle, he was subjected to heavy fire from the enemy, and although he was wounded during the action, he was able to repair the vehicle so that the crew was able to resume firing. The courage displayed by Private Loken was an inspiration to his comrades, and reflects great credit upon himself and the military service. Entered the military service from North Dakota.
Headquarters, 2nd Infantry Division
General Orders No. 137 - 7 June 1951
The Bronze Star with Metal "V" Device is awarded to Corporal Wayne E. Long, ER57503176, Armor, United States Army, a member of Tank Company, 9th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Infantry Division, who distinguished himself by heroic achievement on 12 and 13 February 1951 in the vicinity of Hoengsong, Korea. When his tank was immobilized near Ch'owon-ni, Corporal Long made his way into the mountains with his tank commander and an unknown infantryman. The infantryman was in a bad state of shock. Corporal Long led them past enemy outposts and through enemy lines to the perimeter of a friendly unit. When this unit was cut off by the enemy, he joined the infantrymen and aided in repelling the attacks. The heroism displayed by Corporal Long reflects great credit upon himself and the military service. Entered the military service from Texas.
Headquarters 25th Division
General Orders No. 172 - 21 August 1950
The Bronze Star with V device for heroic action is awarded to First Lieutenant Ralph Longbotham, Infantry, Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 1st Battalion, 27th Infantry Regiment, 25th Infantry Division, United States Army. On 2 August 1950 Lieutenant Longbotham, Battalion S-2, accompanied his unit on a penetration 20 miles into enemy territory near Chunson-ri, Korea. Organizing a small group of men, he led attacks in by-passed positions, eliminating the enemy and obtaining documents and weapons of great intelligence value. Heedless of constant harassing fire and the danger of attacking the fanatic emplacements with his small group, he continued his mission and secured invaluable information and materiel. Lieutenant Longbotham's bold leadership and heroic devotion to duty reflect great credit on himself and the military service. Entered the military service from Minnesota.
Headquarters, 2nd Infantry Division
General Orders No. 87 - 5 November 1950
Private First Class Jose Lopez, RA18225615, Artillery, United States Army, a member of Battery B, 82d Antiaircraft Artillery Automatic Weapons Battalion (Self-Propelled), 2d Infantry Division, distinguished himself by heroic achievement on 1 September 1950 near Changnyong, Korea. On the night of this date he was a crew member of an antiaircraft firing vehicle, attached to an infantry battalion, which had been surrounded and was desperately defending its perimeter. The enemy captured a hill overlooking the battalion positions, and from this vantage point, delivered devastating mortar and small arms fire into the battalion area, During this action, orders were received to place fire on the enemy positions. Disregarding the intense arms fire, and his own personal safety, he remained in the firing vehicle, which was in an exposed position, and delivered such concentrated and accurate fire that the enemy was completely silenced, and 30 enemy soldiers were killed. the hill was retaken a few minutes later by our infantry with practically no resistance. The courage displayed by Private Lopez on this occasion reflects great credit upon himself and the military service. Entered the military service from Texas.
Headquarters, 3rd Infantry Division
General Orders No. 490 - 25 October 1951
Artillery, Battery "B", 39th Field Artillery Battalion, 3ID Infantry Division, United States Army, 22 February to 30 August 1951, in Korea. Entered the military service from the State of New Jersey.
Headquarters, 1st Cavalry Division
General Orders No. 63 - 27 March 1951
Cpl. Julian D. Lorleberg, RA13332285, Armor, United States Army, Company B, 70th Tank Battalion (Heavy), attached to 1st Cavalry Division, 8 August 1950 to 2 November 1950. For meritorious achievement in connection with military operations against an enemy of the United States during the period indicated. Entered federal service from Virginia.
SHAMOKIN – Congressman Lou Barletta, PA-11, today [June 20, 2015] presented a posthumous Bronze Star with the Combat "V" device, among other medals, to U.S. Army Private First Class Thomas David Lotis for his heroic actions in combat during the Korean War. Lotis, a Shamokin native, was later captured during the battle known as the "Massacre at Hoengsong" and died soon after in a North Korean Prisoner of War camp. His award of a Bronze Star was never fully processed and was recently discovered by his family following declassification of documents from that time period. Barletta presented the Bronze Star to Lotis' sister, Theresa "Tessie" Lotis Binkoskie, 92, during a ceremony in Shamokin.
"Thomas David Lotis embodied all that is right with America," Barletta said. "He volunteered to serve his country. He travelled to the other side of the world to fight for freedom, and against oppression, on behalf of people he had never met. He selflessly put himself in harm's way, and risked his own life to save others. He was a true hero, in every sense of the word."
On September 22, 1950, just after the war began, Private Lotis – who was known to all of his friends and family as "Tucky" – was a member of the Headquarters Battery, 15th Field Artillery Battalion, 2nd Infantry Division. That morning, he was part of a forward observer section attached to the infantry battalion. He was in a foxhole when several of his comrades were injured by enemy mortar fire. Without any regard for his own personal safety, Private Lotis left his foxhole and ran through heavy enemy fire to reach the fallen soldiers. When he arrived at the men's side, he successfully administered first aid before being wounded himself by enemy fire.
Five months after he was wounded, Private Lotis was in the central Korean peninsula with childhood friends Dan Schehulski and Joseph Roginskie, also of Shamokin. A Chinese offensive had stalled, and United Nations commanders were preparing a counter-assault. Unbeknownst to the military commanders, the Communists were already preparing for another major offensive and had moved four Chinese and two North Korean divisions into the area. The enemy forces quickly overwhelmed the South Koreans and Americans, resulting in one of the most lopsided defeats of the war. It was to become known as "The Massacre at Hoengsong."
During the battle, on February 13, 1951, Lotis was taken prisoner and interned in a North Korean Prisoner of War camp at Changsong. Joseph Roginskie was killed that same day, while Dan Schehulski survived. Shortly after his imprisonment, through disease and maltreatment, Thomas "Tucky" Lotis died just days after turning twenty years old.
According to General Order Number 39, from 2nd Infantry Division Headquarters – coincidentally on February 13, 1951, the same day he was captured – U.S. Army Private First Class Thomas D. Lotis was awarded the Bronze Star with Combat "V" device. The "V" device is awarded for participation in acts of heroism involving conflict with an armed enemy. His heroics never made it to his formal military record, and could have been destroyed in a fire that swept through a military archive in the 1970s. When some military documents were recently declassified, his name was located along with a description of his actions.
Along with the Bronze Star, Barletta presented Lotis with:
Corporal Frank Lougherd, RA 20604059, Infantry, a member of Headquarters Company, First Battalion, 21st Infantry Regiment, 24th Infantry Division, is awarded the Bronze Star Medal for heroic achievement. On 12 July 1950, north of Chochiwon, Korea, Corporal Loughead discovered that the communications between the Heavy Mortar Platoon supporting the Battalion and the Battalion Command Post had been disrupted by enemy artillery fire. Corporal Loughead voluntarily undertook the task of tracing the communications wire and repairing it. He advanced across open terrain where he was the target for enemy small arms fire as well as being in an area that was constantly subjected to artillery fire. He succeeded in repairing the line. However, upon reaching the mortar position, he discovered that the wire had again been shot out. Refusing to take another soldier with him, he again traversed the same terrain and again repaired the telephone line. During this second trip the enemy closed in on all sides and Corporal Longhead was forced to make his own way back to friendly positions. By his actions, Corporal Longhead brought great credit to himself and to the military service.
For meritorious service, Army Medical Service, 25 May 1951 to 8 September 1953.
Department of the Army
General Orders No. 72 - 30 September 1954
Captain Arthur H. Lozano, Artillery, United States Army, a member of the 38th Field Artillery Battalion, 2d Infantry Division, distinguished himself by heroic achievement in action against the enemy near Changyong, Korea, on 4 September 1950. At approximately 0800 hours, a sizable enemy force which had entrenched themselves on "Hill 285", began delivering deadly accurate mortar, machine gun, and small arms fire in preparation for an attack upon Headquarters Battery, which was under complete observation of the enemy. As the fire direction center tent was riddled by shell fragments during this intense volume of fire, Captain Lozano ordered his men to take cover. Then, aided only by a chart operator and a computer, Captain Lozano continuously exposed himself to the full view of the enemy for approximately 2 hours in order to move about and direct and observe the fire of an artillery battery upon the enemy. Disregarding his personal safety, and ignoring the mortar rounds continuously bursting in the area, Captain Lozano succeeded in silencing the enemy fires and stopped the impending attack upon Headquarters Battery. Captain Lozano's unflinching courage, tenacity, and devotion to duty reflect great credit on himself and the military service.
Headquarters, Department of the Army
General Orders No. 39 - 31 July 1957
Private First Class Jerald H. Lucas, Infantry, United States Army, distinguished himself by heroism at Sang Mago Ri, Korea, on 18 September 1952. During a severe enemy attack on his position, Private Lucas left the comparative safety of a bunker and braved heavy artillery and small arms fire to get a case of grenades from another platoon. Private Lucas' action enabled his comrades to inflict additional casualties on the enemy and effect an orderly withdrawal, reflecting great credit on himself and the military service.
Headquarters 7th Infantry Division
General Orders No. 263 - 29 May 1953
Private First Class Melvin F. Lucas, RA12365168, Infantry, United States Army, a member of Company K, 31st Infantry, distinguished himself by heroic achievement near Chorwon, Korea. On 17 April 1953, the enemy began an intense artillery bombardment on a friendly outpost. Private Lucas, as radio operator, although in an exposed position, maintained communications with the company command post. Wounded by the enemy shelling and blinded by dirt and debris, Private Lucas courageously remained at his post until ordered to leave for treatment. The heroic action of Private Lucas reflects great credit on himself and the military service. Entered the Federal service from New York.
Headquarters, 2nd Infantry Division
General Orders No. 42 - 17 February 1951
The Bronze Star Medal with V Device is awarded to Corporal Buddy C. Luke, RA27793088,(then Private First Class), Infantry, United States Army, a member of Tank Company, 23d Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, who distinguished himself by heroic achievement on 19 September 1950 in the vicinity of Changnyong, Korea. On that date he was a crew member of a tank which was supporting the attack of infantry elements on Hill 174. During the action he voluntarily left the tank and under heavy fire resupplied the deck mounted .50 caliber machine gun with ammunition. When the weapon jammed, he climbed aboard the tank and, while fully exposed to heavy hostile fire, cleared the malfunction. By his courageous action he was able to keep the gun constantly in use, forcing the enemy to remain covered and preventing them from subjecting the assaulting infantry to accurate fire. His heroism under fire contributed greatly to the success of the attack and reflects great credit upon himself and the military service. Entered the military service from Brule County, South Dakota.
Headquarters, 2nd Infantry Division
General Orders No. 28 - 2 February 1951
The Bronze Star Medal with V Device is awarded to Sergeant Roger L. Luken, RA17200671, Infantry, United States Army, a member of Company L, 23d Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, who distinguished himself by heroic achievement on 16 September 1950 near Changnyong, Korea. On that date he was a leader of an automatic rifle team in a company that was attacking enemy positions along the Naktong River. During this action he was wounded but, with complete disregard for his own safety, he refused medical treatment and continued to direct the fire of his men. While under intense enemy small arms and machine gunfire, he led his team to a position from which they succeeded in destroying an enemy machine gun. The heroic and inspiring leadership of Sergeant Luken on this occasion reflect great credit upon himself and the military service. Entered military service from South Dakota.
Headquarters, 2nd Infantry Division
General Orders No. 83 - 17 April 1951
The Bronze Star Medal with V Device is awarded to Corporal Buddy C. Luke, RA27793088, Infantry, United States Army, a member of Tank Company, 23d Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, who distinguished himself by heroic achievement on 15 February 1951 in the vicinity of Chipyong-ni, Korea. On that date he was the gunner of a tank which was under attack by the enemy. During the attack, equipment stowed in the rear of the tank was set on fire. Corporal Luke, with complete disregard for his personal safety, manned the turret-mounted machine gun in order to distract the attention of the enemy and enable his comrades to fight the fire. When his ammunition was exhausted, he climbed completely out of the tank to obtain more ammunition. His heroic actions enabled the crew to extinguish the fire and prevent the destruction of the tank. The heroism displayed by Corporal Luke reflects great credit upon himself and the military service. Entered the military service from Kimball, South Dakota.
[Source: Eagle Forward, Vol. 11, No. 189, July 12, 1951]
Sgt. 1/C James B. Luther, RA16280926, distinguished himself by heroic achievement on May 20, 1951, in the vicinity of Kosa-ri, Korea. Company L, while on patrol, was brought under intense small arms and automatic weapons fire by a well-concealed enemy force dug in on a siege line covering the road. Sgt. Luther, with complete disregard for his safety, remained in the open and delivered heavy fire on the enemy. With the aid of his comrades, he shortly gained fire superiority. Completely disregarding the heavy enemy fire, he then assisted in the treatment and evacuation of the wounded. The heroism demonstrated by Sergeant Luther reflects great credit upon himself and the U.S. Army. Home of Record: Iowa.
Master Sergeant Ned Lyle, RA34920220, Infantry, United States Army, a member of Company A, 21st Infantry Regiment, 24th Infantry Division, is awarded the Bronze Star for heroic achievement on 12 July 1950 near Cho Chi Won, Korea. During a withdrawal of the company Master Sergeant Lyle and three other soldiers manned the three remaining company mortars covering the withdrawal. At this time the mortars had no sights. There were no forward observers to direct fire and the mortar crew was continually exposed to enemy fire. As a result of this action by Master sergeant Lyle and crew, the company was able to withdraw without casualties and heavy losses were inflicted on enemy personnel and equipment. This act of heroic achievement on the part of Master Lyle reflects great credit on himself and the military service. Entered the service from Erwin, Tennessee.
Headquarters 24th Division
General Orders No. 135 - 18 April 1952
By direction of the President, First Lieutenant Harold C. Lyman, 0516326, Infantry, U.S. Army, a member of Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 5th Regimental Combat Team, 24th Infantry Division, is awarded the First Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster to the Bronze Star Medal with V device for heroic achievement near Chupo-ri, Korea, on 12 July 1951. He was attached to a rifle company which had the mission of attacking and securing an enemy held hill. The foe delivered a devastating barrage of artillery and mortar fire, injuring the friendly forward observer. Lieutenant Lyman, with complete disregard for his personal welfare, advanced to a point where he could observe the enemy's positions and direct accurate friendly mortar and machine gun fire on them. The hostile troops concentrated their efforts on him and finally wounded him, but he refused to leave his job. As a direct result of his accomplishment, the enemy suffered heavy casualties, and the friendly troops were able to secure their objective. Lieutenant Lyman's heroic action, bold initiative and selfless performance of duty were an inspiration to his men and reflect the greatest credit on himself and the U.S. Infantry. Entered service from Minneapolis, Minnesota.
Headquarters, 25th Infantry Division
General Orders No. 213 - 18 April 1951
Private First Class Willie E. Lystad, ER17257676, Armor, 25th Reconnaissance Company, United States Army. On 2 April 1951 near Sinjang-ni, Korea, while attempting a river crossing, Private First Class Lystad's unit was subjected to intense small arms and automatic weapons fire. Exposing himself to the deadly barrage, he stood up in his M-39 personnel carrier and directed a heavy volume of .50 caliber machine gun fire at the hostile emplacements. When his weapon developed a mechanical failure, he immediately moved to the .30 caliber machine gun and maintained a steady stream of accurate fire until his comrades were able to displace from open terrain and secure positions of cover. Private First Class Lystad's courage, initiative and selfless devotion to duty are in keeping with the great traditions of the American soldier. Entered the military service from North Dakota.
Headquarters, 24th Infantry Division
General Orders No. 72 - August 07, 1950
Master Sergeant Joseph A. Lyvers, RA6658375, Infantry, United States Army, a member of Company B, 34th Infantry Regiment, 24th Infantry Division, is awarded the Bronze Star Medal for heroic achievement on 20 July 1950, near Taejon, Korea. Master Sergeant Lyvers' company was under heavy fire from assaulting enemy troops. The company was so situated that it was also subjected to enemy cross fire. All contact with the Battalion Command Post was lost. Master Sergeant Lyvers volunteered to accompany an officer in an effort to reestablish contact with the Battalion Command Post located about 1000 yards to the rear. Proceeding under heavy enemy fire, he found the command Post evacuated. Master Sergeant Lyvers and the officer returned to the company with information as to enemy dispositions which aided the company in its withdrawal. This act of heroic achievement on the part of Master Sergeant Lyvers reflects great credit on himself and the military service. Entered the service from Cincinnati, Ohio.