Jose D. Lopez

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Jose D. Lopez (RA10402606), Master Sergeant, U.S. Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company L, 3d Battalion, 65th Infantry Regiment, 3d Infantry Division. On 3 July, 1951, Company L attacked enemy-held positions on Hill 581, near Pyon-Gang, Korea. Sergeant Lopez, as field first sergeant, was with the Third Platoon in the initial stage of the attack; however, upon observing the First Platoon in trouble and with casualties, he quickly attached himself to the Second Platoon and led them to relieve pressure upon the First Platoon. While fearlessly moving about under heavy enemy fire, Sergeant Lopez suffered three serious wounds, but continued encouraging the men to hold their positions and to direct fire on the enemy emplacements. He received first aid two hours after being wounded and remained three more hours in the area, coordinating platoon fire and inspiring the men until hostile forces withdrew. The gallantry, leadership and resoluteness displayed by Sergeant Lopez reflect great credit upon himself and the military service.