The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star to First Lieutenant (Infantry) Harris Claude Neil, Jr. (ASN: 0-348095), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving as a Platoon Leader with Company A, 1st Battalion, 358th Infantry Regiment, 90th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in Mairy, France, on 8 September 1944. When a greatly superior enemy force with armored vehicles attacked the town and attempted to contain his platoon with an equal force, First Lieutenant Neil at once perceived the plan. Leading a squad, he entered the town, circled to the flank of the enemy, and directed and participated in a sudden assault at the risk of his life, heedless of enemy fire from all calibers. From a range of 20 yards, he swept the enemy column with fire of a heavy machinegun, held in his hands. The example of his coolness inspired all who witnessed it and his gallant act destroyed the enemy attack. First Lieutenant Neil’s 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 and the United States Army.

The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant (Infantry) Harris Claude Neil, Jr. (ASN: 0-348095), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving as a Platoon Leader with Company A, 1st Battalion, 358th Infantry Regiment, 90th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in the vicinity of Le Mans, France, on 8 August 1944. While his platoon was establishing road blocks near the town, an approaching enemy convoy was observed. First Lieutenant Neil organized his men, halted the enemy column, and boldly advanced ahead of his platoon, although poor visibility made it impossible to appraise the strength of the German unit. He demanded and effected its surrender, including 150 Germans captured and much valuable equipment taken. First Lieutenant Neil’s 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 and the United States Army.