The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Sergeant Joseph B. Fries (ASN: RA-18311046), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company F, 2d Battalion, 7th Infantry Regiment, 3d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy in Korea. On 4 February 1951, near Changpyongdong, Korea, Sergeant Fries’ platoon was ordered to withdraw from its position. Sergeant Fries voluntarily moved into an exposed position where he was clearly visible to the enemy, thus drawing the hail of enemy bullets upon himself and away from the rest of his men. In so doing, he was seriously wounded. By his selfless disregard of his own safety, Sergeant Fries enabled his men to withdraw. He refused evacuation or medical treatment and continued placing accurate fire upon the enemy until the platoon had withdrawn. Sergeant Fries’ gallantry and heroic devotion to duty reflect great credit upon himself and exemplify the high traditions of the military service.