The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting a Second Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Third Award of the Silver Star to Captain (Infantry) Robert E. Morton (ASN: 0-1291311), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company F, 2d Battalion, 7th Infantry Regiment, 3d Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in Korea. On 23 – 24 November 1951, Company F, 2d Battalion, occupying defensive positions in the vicinity of Kowang-San, Korea, was subjected to an intense barrage of hostile artillery and mortar fire that collapsed many bunkers and inflicted some casualties. After a long period of shelling the friendly forces, the enemy attacked through their own artillery and mortar fire preparation. Captain Morton, the Company Commander, calmly and fearlessly moved about the embattled area, reorganizing the defense perimeter by replacing the wounded and encouraging his troops. Although repeatedly endangered by enemy artillery blasts and small arms fire which blanketed the area, he continued directing the fire of the company and personally guided and observed friendly artillery and mortar fire concentrations upon the attacking foe. Even when it was apparent that the enemy had secured the high ground to the rear of the company, Captain Morton’s determination to complete he assigned mission of holding the vital terrain remained unshaken and his superb leadership resulted in the enemy finally withdrawing with heavy losses. Captain Morton’s gallant and courageous actions reflects the highest credit upon himself and the military service.