The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Sergeant Alvin Tall Bear (MCSN: 666298), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as a Platoon Sergeant of Company F, Second Battalion, Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea from 28 January to 15 March 1951. With his platoon leader seriously wounded and evacuated to the rear during his company’s assault against the regimental objective, a series of cleverly camouflaged enemy positions deeply entrenched on a high hill, Sergeant Tall Bear immediately assumed command and effected a skillful reorganization under blistering small arms and automatic weapons fire. Painfully wounded in the arm as he spearheaded the drive up the steep and treacherous slope, he refused to leave his men and continued to lead them forward until severe pain and loss of blood forced him to submit to evacuation. By his daring initiative, forceful and determined leadership and dauntless fighting spirit in the face of heavy odds, Sergeant Tall Bear served as an inspiration to all who observed him and contributed materially to the successful seizure of the objective. His heroic efforts throughout were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.