The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Second Lieutenant Edward W. Snelling (MCSN: 0-49734), United States Marine Corps, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United Nations while serving as Leader of a 60-mm. Mortar Section, Company H, Third Battalion, First Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces at Hagaru-ri, Korea, on 28 and 29 November 1950. When a numerically superior hostile force attacked and overran the company’s center platoon, Second Lieutenant Snelling braved enemy small-arms, machine-gun, mortar and artillery fire to lead his section in retarding the hostile attack until the command post personnel could organize an effective defense. Observing that his section was drawing enemy mortar and artillery fire, he displaced his weapons in tactical positions and directed their fire until the ammunition supply was exhausted. Although repeatedly exposed to hostile fire, he crossed and re-crossed two open fields to aid the Company Commander in placing reinforcements and, obtaining additional ammunition for his mortars on one trip, was responsible for breaking up an enemy concentration preparing to launch a vigorous attack. Fearlessly traversing an unprotected area, he procured a jeep and trailer loaded with ammunition which had been abandoned between friendly and hostile lines and, driving the vehicle back to the lines, again spotted accurate fire until the ammunition was depleted. By his quick initiative, courageous leadership and steadfast devotion to duty, Second Lieutenant Snelling aided materially in routing the enemy and in successfully defending the company positions, thereby upholding the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.