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The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Bronze Star Medal to First Lieutenant (Infantry) James S. Nugent (ASN: 0-1335041), United States Army, for heroic achievement in action as a member of Company K, 3d Battalion, 15th Infantry Regiment, 3d Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in Korea. On 22 November 1951, near Kuksok-tong, Korea, the Second Platoon of Company K was assigned outpost duty on Hill 200 and subsequently attacked by hostile forces in company sized strength. Although vastly outnumbered, the unit held the hill, fighting at point-blank range with Lieutenant Nugent intelligently manipulating his defense position to ward off the enemy advances. Heedless of the danger to himself, Lieutenant Nugent continuously exposed himself to the heavy hostile fire by fearlessly moving among his men, reassuring and encouraging them to stand firm, he then directed artillery fire from an exposed position and, by this action, forced the enemy to withdraw with heavy casualties. Lieutenant Nugent’s heroic and skillful leadership reflects great credit upon himself and the military service.

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    First Lieutenant (Infantry)

    Batallion:

    3d Battalion

    Regiment:

    15th Infantry Regiment

    Division:

    3d Infantry Division

    Action Date:

    October 4, 1951
    Headquarters, 3d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 29 (January 15, 1952)

    The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant (Infantry) James S. Nugent (ASN: 0-1335041), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company K, 3d Battalion, 15th Infantry Regiment, 3d Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in Korea. On 4 October 1951, Companies K and I were advancing on Hill 477, near Chorwon, Korea, when the enemy greatly increased the volume of fire. At a point approximately 50 yards from hostile emplacements, the area of three platoons was saturated with enemy fire from automatic weapons, small arms, and mortars, wounding the three platoon leaders and causing the men to seek cover. Observing this and acting quickly, Lieutenant Nugent moved about the area and, reorganizing the platoons, led them in another assault through the hail of enemy fire. During the charge, Lieutenant Nugent was wounded, but he courageously led the men forward, disregarding his wound and the hostile fire. His fearless actions in the open terrain before the enemy so inspired the men that they vigorously advanced upon the objective and seized it. Lieutenant Nugent’s exemplary gallantry and inspiring leadership reflects the highest credit upon himself and the military service.