The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant (Infantry), [then Second Lieutenant] Sterling W. LeJeune (ASN: 0-557727), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company K, 3d Battalion, 253d Infantry Regiment, 63d Infantry Division, in action on 5 April 1945, in the vicinity of Mochauhl, Germany. The company became disorganized and sought cover upon coming under heavy enemy mortar and direct artillery fire. Despite the heavy barrage, Lieutenant LeJeune reorganized and personally led the company to safety. Lieutenant LeJeune then returned to help several wounded to safety and at one point protected one of them from shell fragments with his own body. The magnificent courage and outstanding gallantry under fire of Lieutenant LeJeune reflect the highest credit upon himself and are in keeping with the finest traditions of the Armed Forces of the United States.