The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Sergeant First Class Lawrence F. Mauritz, United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with Battery C, 82d Anti-Aircraft Artillery (Automatic Weapons) Battalion (Self Propelled), 2d Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 12 February 1951, in the vicinity of Chobi-gok, Korea, on 17 September 1950. On this date, Sergeant First Class Mauritz was commanding a self-propelled anti-tank gun. As the vehicle was advancing along a narrow road that ran through open country, it was fired upon by several enemy anti-tank guns and suffered two direct hits which immobilized it. Although the vehicle had been stopped in an exposed position, Sergeant Mauritz did not seek cover, but remained with the crew and continued to deliver effective fire upon the enemy. With complete disregard for his safety, he led his squad in wiping out by small-arms fire the crew of an enemy machine gun which opened fire on their flank. His gallant and determined action was a vital factor in eliminating the enemy and clearing the way for the advance of the infantry. The intrepid gallantry displayed by Sergeant Mauritz on this occasion was in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflects great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.