The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star (Army Award) to Technical Sergeant Frank J. Lawson (MCSN: 275630), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against an armed enemy while serving with Company A, First Battalion, Fifth Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces on Obong-ni Ridge, near Yongsan, Korea, on 17 and 18 August 1950. During the attack on a ridge, the platoon leader of the second platoon was killed. Sergeant Lawson, the platoon sergeant, immediately assumed command of the platoon and continued the attack in a highly aggressive manner. At darkness, having seized a portion of the company objective, Sergeant Lawson was ordered to defend that position for the night. At approximately 0230, 18 August 1950, a severe enemy counterattack was launched against Company A’s perimeter of defense. During the ensuing action, intense small arms, automatic, machinegun, hand and rifle grenade fire was directed at the Company position. Sergeant Lawson, wounded painfully in the thigh by machinegun fire during the initial enemy onslaught, continued to move among his men, directing their fires and reforming the line against the attacking enemy. While moving about through this intense fire, he was wounded again by shrapnel in the head, arms, legs and body. Not until the enemy attack was repulsed, would he allow himself to be evacuated. Although badly wounded himself, Sergeant Lawson unselfishly assisted two severely wounded Marines back to the aid station. His outstanding leadership, devotion to duty and heroic actions were an inspiration to his men and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.