The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Corporal Lauro G. Castro (ASN: RA-19312010), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company G, 23d Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy on 8 September 1950 in the vicinity of Poncho, Korea. On that date he was leading his 57-mm. recoilless rifle squad in a platoon that was attacking an enemy-held hill. During the advance the platoon was pinned down by fire from two enemy self-propelled guns which covered all frontal approaches to the hostile positions. Corporal Castro, realizing that his squad would be jeopardized if they deployed to return the fire, order ed them to remain in a defilade position and immediately moved forward alone with his weapon. With complete disregard for his personal safety he continued his intrepid advance into the withering enemy fire. After moving approximately 200 yards he reached a point from where he had an excellent field of fire. From this position he place such heavy and accurate fire upon the enemy emplacements that he destroyed the two self-propelled guns and their crews. As a result of his courageous action the rifle platoon was enabled to continue to its objective against light resistance and undoubtedly prevented more serous casualties to his comrades. The gallantry displayed by Corporal Castro on this occasion reflects the highest credit upon himself is in keeping with the fine traditions of the military service.