The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star to First Lieutenant (Medical Corps) Roy L. Bates (ASN: 0-2055437), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the Medical Company, 15th Infantry Regiment, 3d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy in Korea. On 13 February 1951, near Suso-ri, Korea, a platoon from Company B was given the mission of seizing a critical terrain feature. As the platoon moved up the steep slopes of the hill, it came under deadly enemy machine gun fire, resulting in many casualties. A call was dispatched for medical aid. Lieutenant Bates immediately and unhesitatingly volunteered to proceed to the platoon. He drove through a hail of enemy fire to reach the unit’s position. With complete disregard for his personal safety, he openly moved through heavy fire to the positions of the wounded and rendered first aid. Throughout the fire fight Lieutenant Bates, heedless of the danger from enemy fire, ceaselessly moved among the wounded, evacuating them to a place from which they could be removed by vehicle. In addition he fearlessly ran from house under heavy fire to secure blankets for the casualties. When the platoon commenced its withdrawal, he placed the remaining wounded in his jeep and drove them from the area. The gallantry and courage displayed by Lieutenant Bates reflects great credit upon himself and the military service.