The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 2, 1926, takes pleasure in presenting the Soldier’s Medal to Captain (Infantry) Maurice A. Harris (ASN: 0-1317502), United States Army, for heroism not involving actual conflict with an enemy of the United States as a member of Headquarters, 1st Battalion, 9th Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action on 23 August 1952, in the vicinity of Chorwon, North Korea. On that date Captain Harris, with two platoons from Company A were rebuilding a road that had been washed out due to the torrential rains received in that area. Upon completing this task, Captain Harris marched the men back toward their bivouac area, picking up two more platoons of Company A on the way. When they reached a river, separating them from their destination, it was discovered that the bridge had been swept away by the flood waters and there was no other means of ferrying the men across the swollen river. Captain Harris organized a human chain across the river and placing himself in the middle they began passing the other members of the company across. The chain, however, could hold for short periods only, due to the treacherous current and several times men were swept apart. On three separate occasions, Captain Harris, with complete disregard for personal safety, left the security of this “chain” and succeeded in rescuing men who had been swept away, where a misstep would have cost him his life. Through his inspiring courage and outstanding leadership all members of the three platoons crossed the river safely. The heroic actions displayed by Captain Harris reflect great credit upon himself and the military service.