The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Sergeant Harry R. Spies (MCSN: 351305), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as a Platoon Guide of Company A, First Battalion, First Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 8 December 1950. When leading elements of the platoon were subjected to devastating hostile automatic weapons and small arms fire during the attack against a strongly defended enemy hill position, Sergeant Spies skillfully directed the attached machinegun section in delivering accurate fire on the enemy positions. Observing that the gunner of one weapon was wounded, he rushed forward and, removing the stricken Marine to a safe position, quickly manned the machine gun. As the platoon moved forward in the assault, he accompanied the leading elements and accurately fired rifle grenades into enemy bunkers. When his supply of rifle grenades was exhausted, he obtained hand grenades and, despite the withering hostile fire, continued to neutralize enemy entrenchments. By his aggressive fighting spirit, courageous initiative and selfless devotion to duty, Sergeant Spies contributed materially to the success of his unit in seizing the strategic ground and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.