The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant Fred J. Fees, Jr. (MCSN: 0-39447), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as a Forward Air Controller of the Third Battalion, Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 1 March 1951. When his position was subjected to an intense volume of enemy small arms and machine gun fire while he was engaged in directing an air strike on a hill northwest of Hoengsong, Korea, First Lieutenant Fees repeatedly exposed himself to the heavy fire to direct the aircraft against the enemy position holding up the advance of the battalion. Although he received a severe and painful head wound while engaged in this action, he steadfastly refused to be evacuated and continued to carry on the mission by use of hand signals to one of his men until the target was neutralized. By his outstanding courage and leadership, First Lieutenant Fees served to inspire all who observed him and contributed materially to the success of the battalion in securing the objective. His actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.