The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Staff Sergeant Cornelius Francis Harney (MCSN: 332617), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as a Platoon Sergeant of Company G, Third Battalion, First Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on the night of 31 August – 1 September 1953. Refusing evacuation when hit by enemy fire during the initial stages of a hostile ground attack, Staff Sergeant Harney bravely continued to lead and inspire his men. Undeterred by his wounds, he unselfishly assisted in the evacuation of other Marine casualties and, in the face of intense and heavy enemy fire, continued to direct the fire of his platoon until he fell, mortally wounded. By his cool courage, inspiring leadership and zealous devotion to duty, Staff Sergeant Harney was instrumental in the successful accomplishment of his platoon’s defensive mission and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.