Harold Whiteside

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to Harold Whiteside (RA14461378), Private First Class, U.S. Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company G, 2d Battalion, 65th Infantry Regiment, 3d Infantry Division. During the early morning hours of 16 May 1953, Outpost Harry, in the vicinity of Songnae-dong, Korea, after being subjected to intense artillery and mortar fire, was attacked by a reinforced company strength hostile force. Private Whiteside was assistant squad leader when the squad’s sector on the outpost came under enemy fire. In the ensuing action, the squad leader was mortally wounded by an incoming mortar round. Private Whiteside immediately took charge of the squad. Without regard for his personal safety, he continually moved from one exposed position to another, checking the security of his area. Although wounded, he refused to be evacuated until assured that his sector of responsibility was secure from the enemy probe. As a result of his inspirational actions, the members of his squad increased their determination and intensified their volume of accurate fire, which was a major contributing factor in the successful defense of the position. Private Whiteside’s outstanding gallantry and devotion to duty reflect great credit upon himself and the military service.