The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Second Lieutenant (Infantry) Morgan A. Whitfield (ASN: 0-1288833), United States Army, for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving with the 60th Infantry Regiment, 9th Infantry Division. On the night of 9 November 1942, when the 3d Battalion of the 60th Infantry was in contact with a superior enemy force near the bridge at Port Lyautey, Lieutenant Whitfield volunteered to lead a small patrol to reduce an enemy machine gun position that was holding up the advance of the battalion. By his leadership and aggressive action the mission was accomplished and the battalion objective was taken. Second Lieutenant Whitfield’s gallant actions and selfless devotion to duty, without regard for his own safety, were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.