The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Corporal Thomas M. Morter (MCSN: 1063928), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while attached to Weapons Company, Third Battalion, First Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), and serving as a demolitions expert assigned to an infantry company, in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 14 September 1951. Although painfully wounded, Corporal Morter volunteered to guide a reinforced platoon on a mission to destroy several enemy pillboxes which were firing on friendly forces. Repeatedly exposing himself to intense hostile fire, he led the point of the platoon and personally participated in overrunning the strongly defended enemy emplacements. After organizing a defense, Corporal Morter bravely assisted in evacuating the wounded and was the last man to leave when the tactical withdrawal took place. By his outstanding courage, brilliant leadership and gallant devotion to duty, he served to inspire all who observed him and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.