The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star to Major Warren Morris (MCSN: 0-8444), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Executive Officer of the Third Battalion, Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces on the road between Hagaru-ri and Koto-ri, Korea on 6 and 7 December 1950. With the Battalion protecting the flanks of the regimental train, and his column ambushed and penetrated at many points by enemy forces controlling the road from high and low ground in strength estimated at several regiments, Major Morris boldly exposed himself to intense hostile machine gun, mortar, grenade and small arms fire to move from one critical position to another and direct fierce resistance. Despite the hazardous conditions of darkness and overwhelming enemy fire power, he staunchly encouraged and rallied the fighting spirit of his men and, by his skillful supervision of operations, successfully neutralized the hostile attack and enabled the convoy to rejoin and continue its movement. Early on the following morning, with the Battalion badly battered by further ambushes and its commander reportedly a casualty, Major Morris immediately assumed command and reorganized his troops. Later, receiving orders to attack a strategic enemy roadblock menacing units of the division train, he personally led an infantry company through heavy machine gun fire to a position where effective fire could be directed on the hostile strong point. By his inspiring leadership and tactical ability he was materially responsible for the elimination of the hostile key position, thereby clearing the way for the advance of the regimental train. His outstanding courage and selfless devotion to duty reflect the highest credit upon Major Morris and the United States Naval Service.