The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Major (Infantry), (then Captain] Harris M. Pope (ASN: 0-1306466), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Headquarters, 3d Battalion, 9th Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy on 19 September 1950, in the vicinity of Yongsan, Korea. On that day a composite force of the 3rd Battalion had the mission of attacking and seizing high ground in that area. During the day an emergency call for litter bearers was received at the Battalion Command Post from the officer commanding the attacking force. Major Pope, then Operations Officer, realizing that the party going after the wounded would have to cross open terrain covered by heavy enemy machine gun fire, volunteered to lead them. After passing through friendly lines the party came under intense enemy fire and was pinned down. Major Pope, completely disregarding personal safety and thinking only of the wounded personnel, walked about among the litter bearers urging them forward. Upon reaching the wounded he found the commanding officer of the force and nine enlisted men required evacuation. After putting a leader in charge of the joint forces, he started the return trip with the litter bearers, but before reaching friendly lines darkness fell. During this time heavy enemy mortar fire covered the area the party had to cross. Once again Major Pope had to urge the party on. As they neared friendly lines, despite prearranged signals and because of darkness, the party came under fire from friendly elements. Major Pope ordered the party to take cover and then advanced into the face of fire until he could shout to the friendly forces to cease fire. After passing through the lines and turning the wounded over to the Medical Aid Station, Major Pope returned through friendly lines and took command of the composite force. He then regrouped and reorganized the force and prepared to attack at daylight. Major Pope’s selfless devotion to duty, leadership, courage and coolness under fire reflect great credit upon himself and uphold the highest traditions of the Military Service of the United States.