Laurence E. Chloupek

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Laurence E. Chloupek (0-44094), Lieutenant Colonel, U.S. Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 2d Battalion, 65th Infantry Regiment, 3d Infantry Division. On the night of 14 June 1953, in the vicinity of Sagimak, Korea, Company E made an assault on enemy held Hill 412. Colonel Chloupek had been directing the progress of the mission and controlling supporting fires by means of radio communications from an advantageous position in the command post on the main line of resistance. When increasing enemy fire disrupted communications, Colonel Chloupek made his way to the safe lane and forward of the main line where he came upon returning casualties. While under continuous and intense shelling by enemy mortar and artillery, he organized litter teams and directed the work while personally evacuating several of the more seriously wounded. Displaying an outstanding command ability in an area raked by fire, he effectively directed the resupply of ammunition to attacking troops on Hill 412. In the course of the action, Colonel Chloupek was wounded, but continued his actions until the assault element again returned to the safety of friendly lines. Colonel Chloupek’s outstanding gallantry and devotion to duty reflect great credit upon himself and the military service.