The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Corporal Lawrence E. Payne (MCSN: 1078669), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as a Machine Gun Squad Leader of Company G, Third Battalion, Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 27 November 1950. Skilled and aggressive in combat, Corporal Payne boldly led his squad in the attack against the enemy over rugged mountain terrain swept by intense machine gun and small arms fire, expertly deploying his guns for maximum fire power and fearlessly moving among his men to direct their fire and offer words of encouragement. During the period of reorganization, after his company had obtained its objective, he was quick to act when the enemy launched a strong counterattack and, delivering his deadly crossfire against the oncoming force, inflicted heavy casualties in their ranks and contributed to the repelling of the onslaught. By his inspiring leadership, cool courage under fire and heroic efforts throughout the engagement, Corporal Payne contributed to the success achieved by his company and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.