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) Leroy Waites (ASN: 0-954858), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company I, 3d Battalion, 15th Infantry Regiment, 3d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy in Korea. On 7 June 1951, while attacking a well-defended enemy hill position near Pungjon, Korea, Lieutenant Waites’ platoon was pinned down by intense hostile fire. When efforts to flank the enemy positions failed, Lieutenant Waites ordered bayonets fixed and launched a frontal assault. As the friendly troops neared the enemy emplacements, they were suddenly subjected to withering machine gun fire and forced to take cover in a draw. Quickly regrouping his reserve elements, Lieutenant Waites led them up the draw and engaged the enemy in hand-to-hand combat, successfully routing the enemy after a short struggle. Lieutenant Waites’ gallant actions ensured the ultimate success of the mission and reflects the highest credit upon himself and the military service.