The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class Robert G. Burns (MCSN: 1305398), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving as a Gunner of Company E, Second Battalion, First Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 26 July 1953. Although painfully wounded when his mortar position received several direct hits from devastating enemy artillery and mortar fire which caused several other casualties, including the squad leader, Private First Class Burns unhesitatingly assumed command of the squad and quickly salvaged several damaged mortars to make one complete mortar capable of firing. Upon putting the mortar in action, he stationed a man to relay orders from the command post in the absence of other communications. He then courageously commenced firing the mortar unassisted and after completing several devastating fire missions he reorganized the remaining members of the squad and adeptly supervised the evacuation of the more seriously wounded. He secured a re-supply of ammunition for his mortar and established wire communications with the command post. Private First Class Burns’ gallant and courageous actions combined with his determined aggressiveness served as an inspiration to all who observed him and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.