Jesse W. Teverbaugh, Jr.

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Jesse W. Teverbaugh, Jr. (1125999), Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with a Marine Infantry Regiment, in Korea, on 6 and 7 December 1950. Corporal Teverbaugh, a member of the graves registration team, was driving a weapons carrier in a vehicle convoy, moving from Yudam-ni to Koto-ri, Korea, when the convoy was ambushed by a strong enemy force in the hours of darkness. The members of the convoy took firing positions along the side of the road. He observed an unidentified man crawl under a truck and, without regard for his own personal safety, he crawled under the enemy fire to the vehicle. Finding that the man was an enemy soldier, he fearlessly crawled under the vehicle and killed the enemy with his knife. Later, when the convoy was again halted by accurate machine gun fire, he obtained three grenades and while exposed to the direct enemy fire, succeeded in destroying the enemy position. His aggressive actions were an inspiration to all who observed him and materially contributed to the successful advance of the convoy. Corporal Teverbaugh’s heroic actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.