The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant Colonel (Infantry) Harold G. Maison, United States Army, for gallantry in action as Commanding Officer of the 3d Battalion, *** Infantry Regiment, 41st Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in New Guinea from 22 to 30 April 1944. On 1 April 1944, the Commanding General warned the Infantry of the pending operations. Shortly thereafter, battalion missions were assigned with the Third Battalion, commanded by Lieutenant Colonel Maison, directed to land on White Beach 4, Humboldt Bay, and proceed to the regimental objective, Lemok Hill. Lieutenant Colonel Maison immediately directed details and thorough planning for the operation. His exceptional knowledge of the needs of the elements in his command resulted in the most effective allotment and use of personnel, weapons, equipment and limited transportation available. From D-Day, 22 April until 30 April, Lieutenant Colonel Maison outstandingly commanded his battalion in the active operations in the Hollandia area. On D-Day the battalion moved from larger craft in LVTs [Buffaloes], landing on White Beach 4 in Humboldt Bay. Lieutenant Colonel Maison carefully planned the tactical use of these vehicles and his employment of them was exceptionally sound. Since the LVTs could not proceed up the steep slopes from Beach 4, troops disembarked and moved boldly and rapidly in the face of possible and expected stiff opposition over the rough terrain onto Lemok Hill. With practically no opposition the objective was taken at 1012 hours. During this phase Lieutenant Colonel Maison kept a flow of worthwhile and necessary information to the regiment which resulted in the uninterrupted advance of other elements. Lieutenant Colonel Maison actively led the movement of his battalion and his leadership was greatly responsible for the initial accomplishment. When the first battalion arrived at Lemok Hill the third battalion moved as marching toward Pim. The advance elements arrived at 1628 in Pim. Lieutenant Colonel Maison ordered that night defenses be established. The entire first day’s action had been exceedingly bold, rapid and orderly. Lieutenant Colonel Maison’s coolness, personal drive and front-line leadership instilled offensive spirit and confidence in the personnel of his command. The terrain covered was rough and hilly, trails were slippery and muddy, a light rain was a definite hindrance. The following three days Lieutenant Colonel Maison moved his battalion from Pim toward the inland dromes, alternating s the advance troops within the first battalion. During this period 118 enemy were accounted for as killed. The battalion casualties were almost negligible. The terrain covered was extremely rough jungle, the battalion repairing the track while on the move so supplies could be moved over passable roadways. Personnel carried jungle packs, rations and hand-carried heavy loads of weapons and ammunition. Regardless of loads and difficult terrain, equipment was properly cared for and movement was very orderly. The outstanding leadership, the confidence and optimism displayed by Lieutenant Colonel Maison was reflected throughout the battalion. His spirit regardless of obstacles was commendable. On 28 April Lieutenant Colonel Maison moved the battalion from Nefaar on Lake Bentani to Cyclops drome. By the middle of the morning the objective had been taken and the battalion was on the southeast end of the drome in position to hold if counter resistance was met. Here again the sound tactical movement directed by Lieutenant Colonel Maison resulted in swift accomplishment of the final battalion mission. His gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.