The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Second Lieutenant (Infantry) Lawrence M. Castleberry (ASN: 0-550349), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company F, 2d Battalion, 253d Infantry Regiment, 63d Infantry Division, in action on 24 February 1945, in the vicinity of Aucrasmacher, Germany. Immediately after the company reached its objective, the enemy counterattacked with tanks and infantry. Lieutenant Castleberry, seeing the men disorganized and confused, immediately led his machine gun section to the company’s flank. Although wounded, he directed effective supporting fire and held the company in position by his own efforts which resulted in repulse of the counterattack. The courage, leadership and outstanding gallantry under fire of Lieutenant Castleberry reflect the highest credit upon himself and are in keeping with the finest traditions of the Armed Forces of the United States.