Lambert, Donald Francis
Marine Corps 2nd Lieutenant

Donald Francis Lambert, age 23, from Summit, Illinois, Cook county.

Service era: Korea

Date of death: Thursday, January 8, 1953

Schools: Argo Community High, University of Illinois (1951)
Death details: The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Navy Cross (Posthumously) to Second Lieutenant Donald Francis Lambert (MCSN: 0-54701), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United Nations while serving as a Platoon Commander of Company I, Third Battalion, Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in the Republic of Korea on 8 January 1953. When elements of his platoon were assigned the mission of raiding a heavily fortified and strongly defended enemy-held hill far forward of the main line of resistance, Second Lieutenant Lambert skillfully directed his men during the initial phase of the assault to gain full advantage of supporting arms and, fearlessly leading his unit through a hail of hostile small-arms and grenade fire, succeeded in reaching enemy trenches near the top of the hill. Realizing the need for a vantage point where he could direct his men in wiping out enemy troops concealed in the trench line, he again exposed himself to intense enemy fire to advance to a position on the crest of the hill and dauntlessly commanded the activities of his men in the enemy trenches. Struck down by a burst of hostile machine-gun fire and unable to rise, he continued to direct and encourage his men, urging them on to the successful completion of their mission. When members of his unit attempted to move him to a sheltered position, he steadfastly refused evacuation or medical assistance until all other wounded had been removed to safety. Succumbing to his wounds while being carried to the main line of resistance, Second Lieutenant Lambert, by his inspiring leadership, indomitable courage and great personal valor, contributed materially to the success of the mission and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.

Source: National Archives, Chicago Tribune (1954)