FIRST LIEUTENANT JOSE N. ORTIZ, 0946705, Infantry, Company "M", 65th
Infantry, 3d Infantry Division, United States Army. On 2 October 1951, the
3d Battalion, 65th Infantry, was engaged in a vicious attack against strong
enemy positions near Chorwon, Korea. Three well-entrenched hostile positions
were delivering an intense barrage of automatic -weapons fire on the friendly
force, seriously threatening its further advance. Realizing the necessity
for silencing these enemy positions, Lieutenant ORTIZ, a platoon leader in
Company "M", immediately set up his 75 millimeter recoilless rifle section in
an exposed position in order to get a good field of observation and fire.
Despite the devastating artillery and mortar fire that was directed at his
position, he undauntedly continued firing until two of the hostile positions
were destroyed and his ammunition supply was expended. He then fearlessly
crossed 200 yards of open, fire swept terrain and assumed command of Company
"K"S 57 millimeter rifle section. From this position he continued his
destructive fire until the third enemy position was neutralized. Lieutenant
ORTIZ' exemplary leadership and gallantry were instrumental in the successful
accomplishment of his unit's mission and reflect the highest credit upon
himself and the military service. Entered the Federal service from Puerto
Rico.

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