Louis H. Zackman

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross to Louis H. Zackman (US51208311), Private First Class, U.S. Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United Nations while serving with Company C, 1st Battalion, 7th Infantry Regiment, 3d Infantry Division. Private First Class Zackman distinguished himself by extraordinary heroism in action against enemy aggressor forces at Kumhwa, Korea, on 24 May 1953. On that date, Private Zackman was radio operator for a security patrol engaged in a fire-fight forward of the main line of resistance. Constantly vulnerable to enemy observation and fire, he accompanied the patrol leader in checking positions to relay messages and maintain contact with the command post. When his companion was severely wounded, Private Zackman rushed to the aid of the fallen man, grabbed his weapon, and swept the menacing foe with a merciless hail of fire. After his ammunition was expended, he threw grenades into the ranks of the hostile force, thereby blunting the assault. Observing an enemy grenade fall near his companion, Private Zackman hurled himself on the lethal missile, thus absorbing the impact of the explosion and saving his wounded leader and several comrades from death or serious injury. Inspired by his incredible display of valor, the men fought with such tenacity the enemy was routed with heavy casualties and the mission accomplished.