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 Lafayette Markel Reese (ASN: RA-13255946), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company G, 2d Battalion, 15th Infantry Regiment, 3d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy in Korea. On 24 May 1951, in the vicinity of Taewol, Korea, Company G attacked a series of camouflaged and well-defended enemy emplacements on Hill 925. The lead element had approached to within 75 yards of the objective when it was suddenly subjected to intense hostile fire which inflicted several casualties and halted the advance. Corporal Reese, a radio operator, fearlessly charged through the hail of fire blanketing the area and single-handedly killed three enemy soldiers and wounded two. While moving forward, Corporal Reese was wounded by fragments from an exploding grenade but he courageously continued in the assault, inspiring his comrades to secure the objective. Corporal Reese’s gallantry and aggressiveness reflects great credit upon himself and exemplify the high traditions of the military service.