The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain Gene W. Morrison (MCSN: 0-25706), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Pilot of a Helicopter in Marine Observation Squadron SIX (VMO-6), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 9 December 1950. Although aware of the risks involved in flying an unarmed aircraft behind enemy lines in an area known to be infested with hostile troops, Captain Morrison courageously flew to the rescue of a Navy pilot and his crewman who had crashed on the northeast shore of the Chosin Reservoir. In the face of imminent attack by enemy forces massed in this area, he hovered his helicopter over a snow-covered hilltop until both downed airmen climbed aboard. His courage, fortitude and heroic actions were contributing factors in saving the lives of the airmen, thereby reflecting great credit upon Captain Morrison and the United States Naval Service.

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting a Gold Star in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star to Captain Gene W. Morrison (MCSN: 0-25706), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Pilot of a Helicopter in Marine Observation Squadron SIX (VMO-6), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 12 March 1951. Notified that a friendly pilot had been downed five miles behind enemy lines, Captain Morrison unhesitatingly volunteered to attempt a rescue. Aware that the area was infested with hostile troops, he boldly flew in over the airman’s position and, undaunted by the enemy’s close range small-arms and automatic weapons fire, succeeded in taking the man on board his plane and in transporting him to safety. His superb airmanship, fearless and determined actions and grave concern for another at great risk to his own life served as an inspiration to all members of his squadron and reflect the highest credit upon Captain Morrison and the United States Naval Service.