The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Second Lieutenant (Infantry) Lafave N. Hamilton (ASN: 0-547654), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company C, 1st Battalion, 253d Infantry Regiment, 63d Infantry Division, in action on 16 February 1945, in the vicinity of Hanweiler, Germany. Lieutenant Hamilton led his platoon across the Saar River in daylight, and in the face of intense enemy mortar fire and against a superior enemy force, he prepared positions, relieved a pinned down and disorganized platoon and cleared the town of the enemy. The outstanding leadership and courage demonstrated in his personal leadership in every phase of the operation inspired his men to bold action. His gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.