The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Staff Sergeant [then Sergeant] Styish R. Morris (ASN: 35262264), United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 145th Infantry Regiment, 37th Infantry Division in the Philippine Islands. Staff Sergeant Morris’ squad was preparing for an attack at Mount Pacawagan on 30 April 1945, when an enemy soldier ran out of one of the many caves infesting the area. Catching the squad completely by surprise, the enemy knocked a soldier to the ground, tore a Browning Automatic Rifle from his hands and swung the weapon into position to fire on the squad. Staff Sergeant Morris, although unarmed, rushed the enemy so quickly that he was unable to fire the weapon. After a bitter struggle for possession of the gun, Staff Sergeant Morris with superior strength and weight overpowered the Japanese and forced him back into a deep foxhole, causing him to lose his grip on the rifle. Staff Sergeant Morris then managed to kill the enemy. Sergeant Morris’ alertness, quick thinking and courageous action eliminated a dangerous menace to his squad and earned the complete confidence of his men. Staff Sergeant Morris’ actions, without regard for his own safety, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service, reflecting great credit on himself, the 37th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.