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 First Class John R. Morse (ASN: RA-57401375), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Headquarters, 2d Battalion, 38th Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy on 29 November 1950 in the vicinity of Kaechon, Korea. On that date Private Morse assisted his battalion commander in moving vehicles which blocked a road by organizing other soldiers. During this time he exposed himself to direct fire from a group of enemy. By his courage, he was an inspiration to his nearby comrades, causing many of the withdrawing soldiers to turn and take up defensive positions on high ground. When the battalion commander returned to his command post for a final check, Private Morse volunteered to accompany him. He preceded his commander across an open area which was being swept by hostile fire and searched the command post for possible enemy infiltrators. When orders were issued to withdraw to the regimental perimeter, he assisted in moving the wounded off the high ground which was under enemy fire. Through his coolness and devotion to duty, messages were delivered to other officers and men even though he had to expose himself to enemy grenade and small arms fire on several occasions. The gallantry displayed by Private Morse reflects the highest credit upon himself is in keeping with the fine traditions of the military service.