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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 First Lieutenant (Infantry) Lloyd G. Payne (ASN: 0-1332729), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company K, 23d Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy on 13 and 14 September 1951 in the vicinity of Satae-ri, Korea. On these dates, Company K was in defensive positions under continuous enemy artillery and mortar fire and repelling the fanatical assaults of a numerically superior hostile force. During this entire action Lieutenant Payne remained exposed to the enemy fire in order to direct his men in delivering accurate and effective counterfire on the attacking forces. Moving about the perimeter, he assisted in the care and evacuation of his wounded men. In the course of this action, it became necessary for his unit to join forces with Company I whose officers had become casualties. Assuming command of both units, he continued over the fire-swept area, shouting words of encouragement and rallying the men to hold their positions against the onrushing hostile force. His fearless conduct in the face of the enemy fire was an invaluable source of inspiration to all who observed him, and his aggressive leadership was a major factor in the successful defense of the friendly unit’s positions. The gallantry in action displayed by Lieutenant Payne 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:

    23d Infantry Regiment

    Division:

    2d Infantry Division

    Action Date:

    September 22, 1951
    Headquarters, 2d Infantry Division, General Orders No. 25 (January 18, 1952)

    The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star to First Lieutenant (Infantry) Lloyd G. Payne (ASN: 0-1332729), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company K, 23d Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy on 22 September 1951 in the vicinity of Satae-ri, Korea. On that date Company K was given the mission of defending its position against the attacks of a numerically superior enemy force. Lieutenant Payne, commanding officer, observed that an adjacent unit was receiving the brunt of the hostile assaults and that its commanding officer lay mortally wounded. Realizing the precarious situation the men of this unit were in, Lieutenant Payne voluntarily advanced over the hazardous terrain and assumed command of the unit. He immediately reorganized its defense perimeter, moving from one position to another, designating fields of fire and giving advice and encouragement to the men. He ably directed this unit until a new commander arrived. His initiative and aggressive example affected the whole course of this action and thus was responsible for the friendly elements being able to maintain their positions while inflicting numerous casualties on the hostile forces. The gallantry in action and selfless devotion to duty displayed by Lieutenant Payne on this occasion reflect great credit upon himself and the military service.