Louis M. Gonzales

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Louis M. Gonzales (RA20217702), Master Sergeant, U.S. Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company D, 8th Engineer Combat Battalion, 1st Cavalry Division, in action against the enemy at the Walled City, Kasan, Korea, from 4 September 1950 to 5 September 1950. The second platoon of Company D was assigned the mission of taking and holding the hill within the fortified city on 4 September 1950. When the attack was launched, the platoon leader was overcome with exhaustion. In the face of heavy mortar and automatic weapons fire, Master Sergeant (then Sergeant First Class) Gonzalez promptly assumed command of the platoon and, evacuating the officer, reorganized the unit and directed its entrenchment. Throughout the enemy attacks which followed, without regard for his own safety, he personally directed the fire of his automatic weapons, repositioning them frequently to achieve maximum effectiveness. When the enemy troops were overwhelmingly reinforced and his position because untenable, he skillfully withdrew the platoon with all the wounded and equipment through intense enemy fire to safety. His prompt and vigorous action resulted in heavy casualties to the enemy and saved the platoon from annihilation. Master Sergeant Gonzalez’ heroic actions reflect great credit upon himself and the military service.