Lewis M. Sims

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Lewis M. Sims (1172900), Corporal, 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 28 March 1953. Serving as a machine gun section leader, Corporal Sims displayed outstanding courage, initiative and devotion to duty. He was a member of a unit that was engaged in the initial assault on a strongly fortified hostile position when the unit was subjected to a murderous barrage of enemy mortar and artillery fire which inflicted many casualties. Although painfully wounded, he expressed complete disregard for his personal safety and refused medical aid for himself while he assisted in administering treatment to his seriously injured comrades. Ignoring his own condition, he courageously moved from man to man directing the rescue teams and giving words of encouragement to the wounded men. In one instance, he gallantly rose to his full height under the devastating enemy fire in order to carry a helpless Marine to the comparative safety of the trenchline. Shortly after, as a result of his critical wounds, he fell unconscious and was evacuated. Corporal Sims’ gallant and courageous actions combined with his selfless devotion to duty served as an inspiration to all who observed him and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.