Louis M. Pelosi

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Louis M. Pelosi (0-55938), Second Lieutenant, U.S. Marine Corps (Reserve), for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with a Marine Infantry Company of the FIRST Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in Korea, on 25 February 1953. Serving as a Platoon Commander during a raid against a heavily fortified enemy hill position, Second Lieutenant Pelosi displayed outstanding courage, initiative and devotion to duty. When the unit was pinned down by enemy mortar, grenade, machine gun and small arms fire and had received numerous casualties, he immediately reorganized and continued his advance. Expressing complete disregard for his personal safety, he fearlessly moved from position to position, encouraging the men and directing their fire and maneuver. Despite poor visibility and although painfully wounded himself, he succeeded in killing twenty-five of the enemy, knocking out several bunkers and automatic weapons and destroying enemy trench lines. When ordered to withdraw, he overcame the adversities of enemy fire and difficult terrain features and skillfully returned his platoon and their casualties to the friendly lines. Second Lieutenant Pelosi’s gallant and courageous actions served as an inspiration to all who observed him and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.