The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Hospitalman Lawrence Norman Wickson (NSN: 7198627), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with a Marine Infantry Company of the FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 6 July 1952. Hospitalman Wickson, serving as a Corpsman, displayed outstanding gallantry, professional skill and devotion to duty. When the company was engaged in an assault on a strongly fortified enemy hill position the leading platoon was pinned down. Realizing that three Marines were lying wounded within fifteen yards of the enemy machine gun position, without regard for his personal safety he unhesitatingly ran into the lines of fire of the enemy position, picked up one man and carried him back to the perimeter of defense. Again he dauntlessly ran forward through a hail of enemy small arms and grenade fire and carried back a second Marine. Although physically exhausted he organized a stretcher party and was responsible for the rescue of the other man. By his courageous actions he personally saved the lives of the three Marines. Hospitalman Wickson’s gallantry, concern for his comrades and unswerving devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.