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) Silas V. Morris (ASN: 0-1323954), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 117th Infantry Regiment, 30th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 15 October 1944, in Germany. While an attack was being made by the regiment, Second Lieutenant Morris was given the mission of leading a patrol deep into enemy territory during daylight hours to create a diversion from the main effort. He led his patrol aggressively across open terrain within full view of the enemy and drew heavy enemy fire. Second Lieutenant Morris had been instructed that he might withdraw as soon as his patrol drew enemy fire. Instead, he elected to push forward vigorously, reached his objective, and located an enemy mortar position upon which he directed effective fire. As a result of his heroic actions a strong German mortar position was destroyed and fire from the enemy was drawn away from another position, making possible a successful attack in the sector. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Second Lieutenant Morris, 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.