The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Master Sergeant Lloyd B. Larson (ASN: RA-57514701), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company K, 3d Battalion, 7th Infantry Regiment, 3d Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in Korea. On 6 July 1952, near Samgwan-Ni, Korea, a patrol from Company K was passing a Company I held outpost when the entire area was brought under an intense enemy artillery and mortar barrage. Sensing that the bombardment was preparatory to a hostile ground assault, the patrol was ordered to move into the perimeter of the outpost. Despite the heavy enemy fire Sergeant Larson, the platoon sergeant, remained behind to assure that all members of the patrol reached the outpost safely. Upon reaching the outpost he continued exposing himself to the devastating fire, placing his men in positions from which they would have the best field of fire. As the bombardment lifted and the hostile ground troops made a fanatical charge through holes they had cut in the barbed wire defenses during the artillery pounding, Sergeant Larson fearlessly moved about the defensive area, completely exposed to the lethal small arms and automatic weapons fire of the foe, as he directed the fire of his men and shouted words of encouragement to them. When men in the outer trenches became wounded, he unhesitatingly aided in getting them to the inner trenches became wounded, he unhesitatingly aided in getting them to the inner trenches where first aid could be rendered. During the bitter close fighting several enemy soldiers succeeded in reaching the trench forming the outer defensive perimeter but, under Sergeant Larson’s skillful leadership, they were killed in close combat or forced to withdraw. Sergeant Larson’s outstanding gallantry and exemplary leadership were instrumental to the successful defense of the outpost and reflects the highest credit upon himself and the military service.