Paul Lavergne

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Paul Lavergne (0-928287), First Lieutenant (Infantry), U.S. Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company A, 1st Battalion, 65th Infantry Regiment, 3d Infantry Division. On 29 January 1951, at about half past midnight in the vicinity of Turung, Korea, Company A Command Post was surrounded by an estimated two hundred enemy who attempted a surprise attack. Their design was foiled by Lieutenant Lavergne, company executive officer, who gave the alarm and immediately sprang to an exposed position to engage the enemy with automatic carbine fire. This rapid and heroic action delayed the enemy attack, permitting his comrades to deploy, take up the battle, and eventually fight their way out. Lieutenant Lavergne lost his life early in the fire fight, but his heroic actions saved the lives of his comrades. His bravery and gallantry exemplify the highest traditions of the military service.