The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Corporal Phil H. Kirby (MCSN: 830338), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as a Squad Leader of Company F, Second Battalion, Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 11 September 1952. When the patrol he was leading was ambushed by hostile troops, Corporal Kirby quickly ordered his men to drop back and, while engaging the enemy with small arms fire, skillfully regrouped and organized his unit into a defensive position. Although painfully wounded, he attempted to crawl forward to a seriously wounded comrade lying in an exposed position and bravely persisted in his efforts until forced back by the severe hostile grenade and small arms fire. Returning to his defensive position, he directed friendly mortar fire on the enemy which silenced a machine gun, a mortar and a rocket launcher. Maintaining firm control of his squad, he effectively directed its fire and assisted a Corpsman in administering aid to the wounded until the arrival of a relief unit. Refusing to be evacuated, he supervised the removal of casualties and assisted in positioning the relief forces into a defense. Before leaving the area, he again attempted to reach the body of his comrade and, although painfully wounded a second time, directed the evacuation of his unit to friendly lines. By his indomitable fighting spirit, courageous initiative and selfless efforts in behalf of others, Corporal Kirby served to inspire all who observed him and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.