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 Paul J. Lukes (ASN: US-52037010), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company H, 9th Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy on 9 October 1951 in the vicinity of Tondul, Korea. On this date elements of Company H had the mission of attacking strategic positions on Hill 1005 defended by a fanatically determined hostile force. As the unit advanced it was hindered by intense hostile sniper fire. Realizing the seriousness of the situation, Corporal Lukes, a mortar forward observer, voluntarily advanced over the fire-swept terrain until he had reached an advantageous position. From this point, he threw hand grenades, eliminating the sniper. Returning to his position, Corporal Lukes directed fire upon an enemy emplacement which had halted the advance of friendly forces in another sector. His accurate and effective fire succeeded in destroying the hostile positions, thus enabling friendly forces to continue their assault and secure their objective with a minimum of casualties. The gallantry in action and selfless devotion to duty displayed by Corporal Lukas was in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service.