The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Second Lieutenant Lealon C. Wimpee, United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company D, Second Battalion, Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces east of Hill 722 in the Republic of Korea on 23 April 1951. Serving as rear guard for the battalion, Second Lieutenant Wimpee accurately assessed the enemy preparing to ambush the withdrawing Fox Company. Seeing the gravity of the situation, he led a squad down the hill to eliminate the threat. After an exchange of grenade throwing, Second Lieutenant Wimpee leaped into the trench and bunker with the other Marines following; the enemy position was taken with numerous Chinese killed and several prisoners taken. Second Lieutenant Wimpee then continued the attack to the next Chinese position throwing grenades and firing into the trench and bunker, clearing all resistance. By his outstanding bravery, inspiring initiative, and courageous devotion to duty, Second Lieutenant Wimpee saved the lives of fellow Marines; thereby reflecting great credit upon himself and upholding the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.