Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    Foreign

    Rank:

    Lieutenant General

    Division:

    Army of the Republic of South Korea

    Action Date:

    July 10, 1952

    Department of the Army: General Orders No. 84 (November 3, 1953)

    The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant General Heung Koon Lee, Army of the Republic of South Korea, for gallantry in action as Commanding General, FIRST Republic of Korea Army Corps, in action against the enemy in the vicinity of Hill 351, Korea, on 10 July 1952. Repeated assaults on Hill 351, a key terrain feature in the Corps sector, failed to dislodge the determined enemy from strongly fortified positions. General Lee, realizing the seriousness of the situation and the necessity for immediate action, moved from a position of relative safety and personally directed the reorganization of two companies. Without regard for intense enemy artillery and mortar fire, he unhesitatingly proceeded to forward areas to supervise proper and adequate preparation and combat readiness for a renewed attack. Sensing the deterioration in leadership and morale as a result of increasing numbers of casualties in the command, General Lee remained in the forward areas and his presence during critical stages of combat provided a strong, steadying influence on his troops and inspired them to strike the enemy with vigorous force. As a result of his professional skill, aggressive actions and enthusiasm, the attack was pressed with relentless determination and intensity, which successfully forced the enemy from their positions. General Lee’s indomitable courage, inspirational leadership, and consummate devotion to duty reflect the highest credit on himself and the Republic of Korea Army.