Raymond W. King

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting an Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Silver Star Medal to Raymond W. King (0-1540868), First Lieutenant (Infantry), U.S. Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 3d Battalion, 65th Infantry Regiment, 3d Infantry Division. On 29 September 1951, Company K participating in the 3d Battalion’s attack on Twin Peaks, near Chorwon, Korea, encountered a strong area of enemy resistance, resulting in numerous casualties to the unit, including the company commander. Observing a state of confusion and disorganization developing in the company, Lieutenant King, Assistant Battalion S-3 unhesitatingly made his way to the company through more than a quarter mile of terrain subjected to intense hostile fire. Arriving at the area, he immediately assumed command, reorganizing and encouraging the men by moving about fearlessly in the deluge of enemy missiles. The company’s position again consolidated, he moved it forward and continued the attack. The exemplary gallantry, initiative, and fearless leadership displayed by Lieutenant King reflect high credit upon himself and the military service.

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Raymond W. King (0-1540868), First Lieutenant (Infantry), U.S. Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company K, 3d Battalion, 65th Infantry Regiment, 3d Infantry Division. On 27 March 1951, near Hongbok, Korea, Company K was completely cut off from the remainder of the battalion by a superior enemy force. Lieutenant King, Weapons Platoon Leader, led his men in a bayonet assault on the hostile positions, completely routing and vigorously pursuing the enemy until the platoon came under intense automatic weapons and mortar fire from a ridge to the front. Lieutenant King, although in an exposed position on the forward slope, grabbed a light machine gun and placing fire on the enemy emplacements, drew fire on his own position, enabling a part of the company in his sector to withdraw to a place of safety. The complete disregard for his own safety, gallantry, and calmness under fire displayed by Lieutenant King reflect the highest credit upon himself and the military service.