Basile Lubka

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal (Army Award) to Basile Lubka (0-50285), First Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with the First Battalion, Fifth Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against the enemy near Wonju, Korea, on 11 June 1951. Serving as a rifle platoon leader, First Lieutenant Lubka was given the mission of assaulting Hill 721, then occupied by a large enemy force which had successfully repulsed several previous attacks. Skillfully deploying his platoon, Lieutenant Lubka led his men through an intense hail of enemy fire, until the accurate fire from a hidden enemy machine gun forced his unit to seek cover. Without regard for his personal safety, Lieutenant Lubka exposed himself in order to locate the gun emplacement, and quickly destroyed it. This action enabled the platoon to continue the assault and seize the objective. The gallantry and courageous leadership displayed by Lieutenant Lubka on this occasion contributed immeasurably to the success of the mission, and reflects great credit on himself and the military service.