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), [then Staff Sergeant] Robert William Burcell (ASN: 0-2024226), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 43d Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on Morling Hill, Luzon, Philippine Islands, on 12 January 1945. Second Lieutenant Burcell’s company successfully attacked Morling Hill, seized it, and prepared to establish its defenses when the enemy, holding a small portion of the hill, delivered heavy machine gun fire on our troops. Second Lieutenant Burcell, squad leader of the leading squad, took steps to clear the company of its danger. Leading his squad into a draw and up to the top of Morling Hill, his platoon assaulted the enemy with grenades and bayonets. As a result of this action the enemy was driven from its positions, thereby making it possible for Second Lieutenant Burcell’s company to cross with its wounded to the protected slope of the hill. The leadership displayed, the courage shown and the initiative used by Second Lieutenant Burcell were an inspiration to all his men and an outstanding example of an infantryman in action. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Second Lieutenant Burcell, 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.