The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Staff Sergeant Gary J. Curtis (MCSN: 1071810), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as a Platoon Sergeant of Company E, Second Battalion, First Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea from 24 to 27 July 1953. When the enemy launched savage attacks against friendly positions, Staff Sergeant Curtis unhesitatingly exposed himself to intense hostile fire to move among the positions, checking ammunition, assisting in the evacuation of the wounded and shouting words of encouragement to his comrades. During one severe night action, he fearlessly led his men in a daring counterattack on a portion of the lines temporarily in the possession of the enemy and succeeded in personally killing seven of the enemy and in inflicting extensive damage on hostile equipment, thereby materially aiding in restoring that sector of the line to friendly troops. Later, when vital wire communications were severed by the intense hostile barrage, he skillfully directed mortar fire upon troop concentrations and installations to inflict severe damage on the enemy. By his indomitable fighting spirit, courageous initiative and adroit leadership, Staff Sergeant Curtis contributed materially to the success of the company in repelling the large scale enemy attacks against the position. His unswerving devotion to duty throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.