The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to T/Corporal Harold E. Patch, Australian Army, for a member of the 1st Battalion, 1st Royal Australian Regiment, Australian Army, distinguished himself by gallantry in action against the enemy in the vicinity of Kangso-ri, Korea, on 2 July 1952. As patrol leader of a raiding party sent forward to neutralize a heavily fortified hostile emplacement which threatened the success of friendly efforts in this area, he moved forward with enthusiasm and determination which inspired his companions. Quickly maneuvering up the steep slope toward the enemy bunkers and ignoring intense hostile fire, Corporal Patch organized his men for a final assault. Without hesitation, he led his patrol in a spirited charge through heavy machine-gun fire to the first of the enemy bunkers. Upon reaching the entrance, he discovered that the opening was only large enough for one man to enter at a time. When a comrade attempted to crawl into the tunnel-like entrance, he provided supporting fire. Suddenly a burst of automatic-weapons fire from within the bunker wounded Corporal Patch and his companion. Disregarding his wound, he succeeded in pulling his companion from the opening and moved back inside to engage the enemy. Despite a second wound received in this action, he continued with his mission until the position was neutralized. The courageous and aggressive action and selfless devotion to duty displayed by Corporal Patch reflect great credit on himself and the military service.