The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private Herbert M. Leavitt (ASN: RA-17083995), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company C, 3d Engineer Combat Battalion, 24th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy near Waegwan, Korea, on 19 September 1950. During the assault crossing of the Naktong River Private Leavitt made repeated trips across the fire swept stream. On one occasion, when returning to the friendly shore his boat was disabled by the enemy’s intense fire. Utterly disregarding the intense fire Private Leavitt repeatedly plunged into the stream retrieving abandoned boats and paddles and brought them to the shore insuring the continued flow of men and supplies in this most vital operation. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Private Leavitt, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.