The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Hospitalman Michael Franklin Roberts (NSN: 4207148), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as a Corpsman attached to Recon Platoon, Headquarters and Service Company, Third Battalion, First Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea, on 12 and 13 August 1952. When his unit was cut off by a large hostile force during a mission to probe a critical ridge forward of the main line of resistance to determine the enemy’s strength and position of its flanks, Hospitalman Roberts repeatedly exposed himself t o an intense hostile mortar and artillery barrage to render aid to several wounded Marines. After reorganizing, the unit again moved forward in the face of heavy enemy fire to increase the protection of the company’s exposed left flank. Although the hostile troops attacked at regimental strength during the night with devastating rounds of artillery and mortar fire for a period of eight and one-half hours, Hospitalman Roberts fearlessly made his way along the entire company front to treat the wounded and insure evacuation. Discovering, early the next morning, that the enemy had increased their mortar barrages and succeeded in inflicting heavy casualties upon the company, he again moved from one position to another, despite intense hostile fore, for over a period of six hours, treating the wounded and lending words of encouragement. By his marked courage, outstanding skill and selfless efforts in behalf of others, Hospitalman Roberts materially aided in saving many lives and served to inspire all who observed him, thereby upholding the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.