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The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star to First Lieutenant (Infantry) Walter Albert Jagiello (NSN: 0-27584), United States Army, for gallantry in action against an armed enemy while serving with Company L, 3d Battalion, 5th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division, in action on 6 September 1951, near Chinpa-ri, Korea. When Company L launched an attack on enemy positions in an attempt to relieve pressure on Company K, two platoon leaders were wounded by intense small arms and automatic weapons fire. Lieutenant Jagiello immediately rushed to the distressed platoons and organized them in a vigorous assault against the foe. When a large hostile force was observed preparing to attack his assaulting platoons, he acted as forward observer, directing devastating artillery fire on the enemy troops. As a result of his inspirational leadership the mission was successfully completed and heavy casualties were inflicted on the foe. Lieutenant Jagiello’s gallantry reflects great credit on himself and the military service.

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    First Lieutenant (Infantry)

    Batallion:

    3d Battalion

    Regiment:

    5th Cavalry

    Division:

    1st Cavalry Division

    Action Date:

    May 29, 1951
    Headquarters, 1st Cavalry Division, General Orders No. 285 (September 21, 1951)

    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) Walter Albert Jagiello (NSN: 0-27584), United States Army, for gallantry in action against an armed enemy while serving with Company L, 3d Battalion, 5th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division, in action on 29 May 1951, near Yongchon, Korea. During the attack on Hill 136, the commanding officer was killed and the forward observer was seriously wounded. Lieutenant Jagiello, realizing the perilous situation, immediately took command and reorganized the friendly troops in the attack, then proceeded to the forward observer’s position, where he directed artillery fire into the enemy-held position with effective accuracy. After being relieved from the forward observer’s position, Lieutenant Jagiello rejoined the platoon and led his men in a vicious attack against heavily fortified enemy positions. His relentless determination and disregard for his life was such an inspiration to the men, that they completely overran the hostile position, inflicting heavy casualties on the enemy. Lieutenant Jagiello’s gallantry reflects great credit on himself and the military service.