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 Sergeant First Class [then Sergeant] Lawrence E. Henderson (ASN: RA-11163041), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Headquarters Company, 3rd Battalion, 21st Infantry Regiment, 24th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy near Kigye, Korea, on 30 August 1950. He was manning an observation post in a sector of the line defended by Republic of Korea troops when the enemy launched a strong attack consisting of two enemy regiments supported by heavy artillery and mortar fire. Under the heavy enemy pressure the troops withdrew from their positions on the high ground. With complete disregard for personal safety he refused to evacuate his exposed observation post. Under the extremely heavy enemy artillery and mortar fire, he contacted friendly artillery and directed its fire on the assaulting enemy. His accurate direction of the friendly fire inflicted heavy casualties on the enemy force, disorganizing its attack and causing it to withdraw in confusion. By his outstanding courage and disregard for personal safety he was directly responsible for repulsing the enemy attack and prevented a breakthrough of the United Nations defense line. Sergeant Henderson’s gallant actions are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army Infantry.

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Army

    Division:

    24th Infantry Division

    Action Date:

    Korean War

    Headquarters, 24th Infantry Division, General Orders No. 292 (1951)

    (Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lawrence E. Henderson, United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 24th Infantry Division in Korea. His gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.