The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Second Lieutenant Hal W. Field, Jr. (MCSN: 0-52033), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as a Forward Observer of Battery G, Third Battalion, Eleventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 14 June 1952. When the infantry unit he was voluntarily accompanying on a night raid was brought under heavy enemy mortar, automatic weapons and small arms fire which disrupted communications and inflicted many casualties, Second Lieutenant Field, although painfully wounded, exposed himself to intense hostile grenade barrages to reorganize and encourage the men and direct their fire against the enemy. After ensuring the evacuation of all casualties, he bravely directed the rear guard as it fought its way out of the encirclement and, upon reaching a friendly outpost, refused medical aid to adjust artillery fire upon the hostile position. Through his skill in directing the close artillery support, the remainder of the unit was able to disengage and return to friendly lines. By his exceptional courage, professional competence and unyielding devotion to duty, Second Lieutenant Field served to inspire all who observed him and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.