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Navy Federal Credit Union

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 Lambert W. DeShetler (ASN: RA-15270626), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company H, 23d Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy on 19 September 1950 in the vicinity of Ponjinchong, Korea. On that date he was a member of a forward observer party for a mortar platoon which was supporting the assault of a rifle company against enemy-held high ground. During the attack three riflemen were wounded and were lying helpless approximately 100 yards forward of the observation post. Corporal DeShetler, with complete disregard for his personal safety, left his exposed position and dashed forward through the withering hostile fire sweeping the terrain. Three times he made the hazardous trip and succeeded in removing all three wounded soldiers to sheltered positions. The gallantry and devotion to his fallen comrades displayed on this occasion by Corporal DeShetler reflect the highest credit upon himself are in keeping with the fine traditions of the military service.

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Sergeant

    Batallion:

    2d Battalion

    Regiment:

    23d Infantry Regiment

    Division:

    2d Infantry Division

    Action Date:

    May 18, 1951
    Headquarters, 2d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 184 (June 17, 1951)

    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 Sergeant Lambert W. DeShetler (ASN: RA-15270626), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company H, 23d Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy on 18 May 1951, in the vicinity of Chaun-ni, Korea. Because the position held by Sergeant DeShetler’s battalion had become untenable due to exposed flanks, all units were ordered to withdraw. Sergeant DeShetler voluntarily and with complete disregard for his personal safety, secured an 81-mm. mortar and remained behind to give covering fire to the rifle companies that were under heavy attack. Although he had to fire and sight the mortar single-handedly, his fire was so rapid and sustained that the mortar tube was burned out. He then secured another tube and continued firing the mortar until friendly troops had cleared the area. Before withdrawing from his position he destroyed the mortar to keep it from the hands of the enemy. The gallantry displayed by Sergeant DeShetler reflects great credit upon himself and upholds the highest traditions of the Military Service of the United States.