Dempsey Lucas

The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the Silver Star Medal (Posthumously) to Dempsey Lucas (34081875), Private First Class, U.S. Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against an armed enemy while serving with Headquarters Company, 1st Battalion, 254th Infantry Regiment, 63d Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 23 January 1945, at Bennwihr, France. In an attack on Hill 216, casualties were sustained from small arms, mortar and artillery fire and schu-mines. Being fully aware of existing dangers, Private First Class Lucas, as litter bearer, proceeded into a mine field under intense enemy fire to give aid to a wounded soldier who was calling for help. In this action Private First Class Lucas stepped on a schu-mine, resulting in the loss of his life. His gallant sacrifice and outstanding gallantry remain a lasting inspiration to the men of his organization and reflect great credit upon himself, the 63d Infantry Division, and the United States Army.