Raymond E. Phillips

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Raymond E. Phillips, (RA: 11186991), Corporal, Infantry, Company B, 7th Infantry, 3d Infantry Division, United States Army. On 8 June 1951, near Harang-dong, Korea, Corporal Phillips’ platoon was attacking a series of well-concealed enemy positions on Hill 687 when it was suddenly subjected to intense small arms, automatic weapons, and mortar fire, slowing the advance. During a lull in the battle, Corporal Phillips voluntarily moved forward of his platoon with a hostile prisoner in the hope that the enemy would surrender. As the renewed the intense fire in reply to his plea, he remained in the exposed location drawing the hostile fire, thereby enabling his unit to safely withdraw to more tenable positions. However, in so doing, Corporal Phillips was mortally wounded by fragments from a bursting mortar round. The gallantry, courage, and selflessness displayed by Corporal Phillips reflect the highest credit upon himself and the military service.