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.