The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant Robert B. Roth (MCSN: 0-48786), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as a Rifle Platoon Commander of Company F, Second Battalion, Fifth Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 17 September 1951. Assigned the mission of seizing a heavily fortified hill position defended by a determined enemy force, First Lieutenant Roth skillfully maneuvered his men up the slopes until he had reached an advantageous position close to the hostile strong point and, unable to coordinate his attack with other units in the approaching darkness, effectively deployed his platoon in defense for the night. When morning disclosed the enemy moving freely about their positions in the belief that his platoon had been withdrawn, he promptly adjusted preparatory fires, launched a furious assault against the hostile stronghold, which took the enemy completely by surprise, and bravely led his men forward through increasing hostile fire to seize his sector of the objective before deploying his squads to assist the advance of an adjacent friendly unit. By his courageous leadership, outstanding tactical skill and zealous devotion to the fulfillment of a vital mission, First Lieutenant Roth served to inspire all who observed him and contributed immeasurably to the success achieved by the company, thereby upholding the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.