Leroy T. Pope

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Leroy T. Pope (1278442), Private First Class, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with a Marine Infantry Company of the FIRST Marine Division, FMF, in Korea, on 24 July 1953. Serving as a gunner in the company mortar section, Private First Class Pope displayed outstanding courage, initiative and devotion to duty. When the enemy launched vicious attacks against the sector that the company occupied, he was engaged in a fire mission delivering devastating mortar fire upon the hostile forces. During this fire mission, an illuminating mortar shell was accidentally dropped in one of the gun pits and the ignition cartridge of the missile was ignited by the impact of the projectile striking the ground. The deadly missile rolled into the ammunition pit where it threatened to explode all of the ammunition in the pit. Upon noticing this, Private First Class Pope expressed complete disregard for his personal safety and gallantly seized the dangerous projectile and hurled it clear of the ammunition pit and personnel in the area. The fused shell exploded in the air about ten feet from him without causing any damage or casualties. His courageous actions saved at least four people in the immediate area from serious injury and possible death. Private First Class Pope’s gallant and courageous actions combined with his remarkable resourcefulness during the hazardous encounter served as an inspiration to all who observed him and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.