The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Second Lieutenant Merrill H. Newman (MCSN: 0-53018), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as a Platoon Commander of Company A, First Battalion, Fifth Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 9 May 1952. After launching a series of highly coordinated attacks which inflicted heavy casualties upon the enemy, Second Lieutenant Newman reorganized his men in defense against a counterattack. When the hostile force attacked in overwhelming strength, he personally held off five of the enemy who were attempting to capture friendly casualties near his platoon command post. Despite intense hostile artillery, mortar and small arms fire, he fearlessly led his men against enemy forces who were infiltrating his lines and causing a break in the supply and evacuation route, and vigorously continued the attack until ordered to disengage. By his outstanding leadership, courageous initiative and steadfast devotion to duty, Second Lieutenant Newman served to inspire all who observed him and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.