The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Second Lieutenant (Infantry), [then Sergeant First Class] Charles R. Crites (ASN: 0-2263335), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company C, 1st Battalion, 15th Infantry Regiment, 3d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy in Korea. On 23 June 1951, near Segok, Korea, the Third Platoon of Company C was attached to Company B, 1st Battalion, 15th Infantry Regiment, during an assault on Hill 717. Lieutenant Crites courageously led his squad through the intense enemy fire and destroyed two hostile emplacements which had been holding up the entire advance, personally charging one position and killing three enemy soldiers with accurate fire from his weapon. The objective, having been secured by the inspired units, was fiercely counterattacked by the foe during the early morning hours of the 24th of June and the hasty positions were overrun. Heedless of the heavy enemy fire, Lieutenant Crites resolutely remained in position, refusing to withdraw until all the wounded members of his platoon had been evacuated. The superb gallantry and aggressive leadership displayed by Lieutenant Crites reflect great credit upon himself and the military service.