The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Second Lieutenant Robert J. Leister (MCSN: 0-55820), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as a Platoon Commander of Company D, Second Battalion, Fifth Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea from 26 to 30 March 1953. Assigned the mission of reconnoitering and determining the enemy strength on a combat outpost that had been overrun by hostile troops a few hours earlier in the evening, Second Lieutenant Leister skillfully maneuvered his platoon to within 50 yards of the position and proceeded to harass the enemy with grenades and sniper fire. Throughout the remaining eight hours of darkness, he personally led small groups to within grenade range of the hostile position and directed effective fire which prevented the enemy from preparing adequate defensive positions, safely withdrawing his platoon at daybreak to the main lines. Later in the morning, when assigned the mission of counterattacking the same outpost as an integral part of the company, he fearlessly continued to move forward under a murderous barrage of enemy fire until relieved by another unit. Throughout the entire period, he exposed himself to hostile fire to offer advice and encouragement to his men. By his inspiring leadership, aggressive fighting spirit and courageous initiative, Second Lieutenant Leister contributed directly to the success of his platoon and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.