The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class Lawrence J. King, Jr. (ASN: 31351971), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the Medical Detachment, 253d Infantry Regiment, 63d Infantry Division, in action on the night of 2 – 3 January 1945, in the vicinity of Gros Rederching, France. Private First Class King, as Aid Man attached to Company B, 253d Infantry Regiment, was subjected to heavy artillery, mortar and small arms fire as he moved among the men in fox holes and trenches administering first aid. It was necessary for him to expose himself to enemy fire for extended periods of time. This utter disregard for his personal safety reflects credit upon himself and the Armed Forces of the United States.