The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star to Major Maurice E. Roach (MCSN: 0-8492), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Commanding Officer of the Third Battalion, Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea from 26 September to 4 October 1950. During its first combat engagement on 26 September, Major Roach expertly directed and supervised his unit in overcoming an elaborate enemy defense position on a hill guarding the northwest approaches to Seoul. When the battalion was halted by strongly fortified hostile positions near Uijongbu on 2 October, he exercised a complete knowledge of the situation which was responsible for permitting his men to overrun the hostile strong points in a minimum amount of time. Despite grave hazards, he constantly operated in the forward areas, maintaining close contact with the front lines in order to direct efficiently the tactical employment of his unit. By his cool courage, inspiring leadership and steadfast devotion to duty, Major Roach was directly instrumental in the success achieved by his battalion and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star (Army Award) to Major Maurice E. Roach (MCSN: 0-8492), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Commanding Officer of the Third Battalion, Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea during the period 2 November 1950 to 8 November 1950. On 6 November 1950, his battalion, assigned to advance and destroy the enemy in its zone of action, was held up by a well organized enemy defense. Major Roach moved to an observation post on the front lines so as to coordinate the attack. He continually exposed himself to heavy enemy fire for several hours while in this observation post until he was assured that his command had broken the enemy defense. His display of leadership, courage and initiative was an inspiration to the officers and men of his command. It was through his coordination and leadership that the Third Battalion broke the enemy defense and advanced to accomplish its mission.