The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to First Lieutenant William Frierson Curry (MCSN: 0-49139), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Commander of a Rifle Platoon of Company A, First Battalion, Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 23 April 1951. With his company subjected to a fierce attack by numerically superior enemy forces during the hours of darkness, First Lieutenant Curry boldly exposed himself to intense hostile automatic weapons, hand grenade and small arms fire to direct his platoon in defending its position. Despite a serious and painful bullet wound sustained early in the action, he refused to leave his post and, bravely moving through the heavy enemy fire, continued to encourage and direct his men until he was mortally wounded by a hostile hand grenade. By his marked courage, inspiring leadership and aggressive fighting spirit, First Lieutenant Curry contributed immeasurably to the success of his unit in repulsing the enemy attack and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.