The President of the United States takes pride in presenting the
SILVER STAR MEDAL (posthumous) to
PFC RICHARD A. HAAGENSEN
United States Marine Corps
For service as set forth in the following
CITATION:
"The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private First Class Richard Allan Haagensen, United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving with Company A, First Battalion, Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on the night of 1 January 1953. Acting as assistant commander of twenty-seven men who were occupying and defending a vital combat outpost located far forward of the main line of resistance, Private First Class Haagensen skillfully directed the positioning of a heavy machine gun to support another platoon during a raid on strongly defended enemy positions. Unhesitatingly volunteering to man the weapon, he delivered deadly fire upon the enemy and completely silenced two hostile rocket positions. Although the area was subjected to murderous enemy mortar barrage, he steadfastly remained at his weapon and continued to bring devastating fire upon the opposition until he fell, mortally wounded. By his indomitable fighting spirit, courageous initiative and unyielding devotion to duty, Private First Class Haagensen served to inspire all who observed him and upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country."
