George R. Newton

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to George R. Newton (0-5786), Lieutenant Colonel, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with a Marine Infantry Battalion of the FIRST Marine Division, FMF, in Korea, on 23 September 1950. Lieutenant Colonel Newton, acting as Battalion Commander, was ordered to attack and seize a hill on the outskirts of Seoul, Korea. The battalion attacked and seized the assigned objective against fierce resistance, and in so doing, the left flank of the battalion became exposed to heavy enemy small arms, mortar, and artillery fire. Lieutenant Colonel Newton, fearlessly and courageously with complete disregard for his own safety, remained in exposed positions from which he could direct the activities of his unit and inspire them to hold the ground they had gained in spite of severe casualties. His heroic actions and initiative were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.