The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain Francis E. Finch (MCSN: 0-40423), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Commanding Officer of Battery M, Fourth Battalion, Eleventh Marines, FIRSTFMFR 28 May 1953. While his howitzer battery was delivering devastating fire against enemy troops in support of infantry operations, the position was subjected to intense hostile counterbattery fire. When an enemy shill hit one of his gun positions and started a powder blaze, Captain Finch rushed through the murderous hostile barrage to the scene of the fire. After ordering the men of the section to safety, he seized a fire extinguisher and attempted to quell the flames. With the aid of another Marine, he fought the blaze until the flames were extinguished and then assisted in the evacuation of the wounded. By his quick and heroic actions, Captain Finch saved many lives and material and permitted the battery to continue its intensive fire upon the enemy. His outstanding leadership, indomitable courage and gallant efforts were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.