The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class Frank R. Newell (MCSN: 351434), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving with the FIRST Marine Division in action against enemy Japanese forces on Cape Gloucester, New Britain, on December 27-28, 1943. While his unit was engaged in vigorous combat with the enemy, Private First Class Newell unhesitatingly volunteered to proceed to a point where hostile machine guns were heavily concentrated and, courageously advancing to the hazardous area, made a report on Japanese positions. Later, when his squad leader was wounded by hostile fire, he skillfully assumed command, maintaining effective communications with his commanding officer and coordinating his squad with others despite the intensity of hostile opposition. Private First Class Newell’s daring initiative and devotion to duty in the face of grave peril were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.