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 Ralph M. Lightcap (ASN: RA-32594510), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company A, 6th Medium Tank Battalion, 24th Infantry Division, in action near Chongkodong, Korea, on 1 November 1950. Leading the advance of an infantry battalion he observed a camouflaged enemy tank and brought the fire of his cannon and machine guns to bear on the tank. His effective fire was returned by the entire enemy force consisting of nine tanks, a self propelled gun and infantry estimated at well over company strength. His tank, far forward of the remainder of his company, was immobilized as the result of direct hits and set afire. Completely unmindful of personal safety he continued to engage the enemy. His effective fire destroyed two of the enemy’s tanks, killed or wounded many dismounted troops and enabled the remainder of the company to move to positions from which they engaged the enemy and forced his withdrawal in disorder. Sergeant Lightcap’s courageous actions and unhesitant devotion to duty reflect the greatest credit on himself and the United States Armor.