The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class John Krajeski (ASN: 37751059), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company B, 17th Infantry Regiment, 7th Infantry Division, at Okinawa. Late in the afternoon of 10 June 1945, Private First Class Krajeski’s Company had reached a ridge 200 yards northeast of the Yaeju-Dake hill maze when it was held up by knee mortar and machine gun fire coming from caves in the face of the 150-foot escarpment. Because of the heavy fire capable of inflicting severe casualties on attacking units, it was decided to blow the caves under cover of darkness in preparation for a pre-dawn attack. Private First Class Krajeski volunteered for the hazardous task and while still daylight reconnoitered his route of approach. Then, when it became dark, he, with another volunteer, descended into the valley in front of his position and began the slow, hard and dangerous 120 foot climb up the rocky and enemy infested escarpment. Private First Class Krajeski worked his tortuous way to within a few feet of the cave he was to blow, and from which sounds of enemy occupation could be heard, and then he threw his 50-pound satchel charge into the opening. The cave was completely closed, and the gun position was destroyed. Private First Class Krajeski’s actions were highly inspirational to all concerned and in keeping with the highest honors of the military service.