The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant (Infantry) Robert C. Morris (ASN: 0-1296732), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company B, 1st Battalion, 129th Infantry Regiment, 37th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy at Luzon, Philippine Islands, on 31 January 1945. Lieutenant Morris displayed outstanding courage and leadership in leading an assault over open terrain to gain an important hill-top objective. The Japanese manned dug-in positions on the peak of the hill, and were able to command the entire hill-side and approaches to it with rifle, machine gun and mortar fire. However, Lieutenant Morris skillfully maneuvered his platoon to take advantage of a small draw, and when within 75 yards of his objective, jumped from the cover of the draw and led his platoon in a successful charge up the hill. His aggressiveness and inspiring leadership resulted in the complete annihilation of the enemy force and the capture of a vitally important terrain feature. His gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.