The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant (Infantry) Lonnie M. Walls (ASN: 0-2262035), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company K, 3d Battalion, 15th Infantry Regiment, 3d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy in Korea. On 20 May 1951, Company K was assaulting the enemy, near Koyang-San, Korea, with the taking and holding of Hill 617 as its objective. The unit encountered stubborn enemy resistance and after a prolonged engagement began to run short of ammunition which resulted in a decreased amount of fire power. The enemy, sensing the lessening of opposition, stepped up their barrage and placed the company under devastating fire. Lieutenant Walls, a platoon leader, quickly saw that the company, faced with a rapidly dwindling ammunition supply, stood to lose already hard-won territory and unhesitatingly revealed himself to the increased hostile fire to organize a covering force, allowing the remainder of his platoon to withdraw and secure more ammunition. Resolutely commanding his holding force against the larger enemy, he prevented the foe from seizing the terrain that had previously been taken. When the platoon had received the desperately needed ammunition, Lieutenant Walls, who had actively assisted in distributing the vital supply, then led a counterattack, driving the enemy from the area. Lieutenant Wall’s courage and decisive leadership reflects the highest credit upon himself and the military service.