The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Master Sergeant John T. Burke (ASN: RA-14390561), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company G, 2d Battalion, 15th Infantry Regiment, 3d Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in Korea. On the night of 28 July 1952, a squad of men led by Sergeant Burke were defending a strategically important position on an outpost known as “Kelly”, in the vicinity of Koyang-dae, Korea. As his group was in the process of being relieved by other elements of their unit, they were suddenly subjected to an estimated company size attack by the enemy. Displaying courageous aggressiveness and outstanding leadership, Sergeant Burke quickly organized the two groups of friendly soldiers into a defensive perimeter. While racing to each position directing the friendly fire, he was seriously wounded and rendered unconscious by two enemy concussion grenades. Regaining consciousness and seeing that the enemy had infiltrated into the friendly positions, he disregarded his intense pain, refused medical aid and evacuation and with complete disregard for his personal safety, continued to fearlessly lead his men in the defense, personally killing and wounding several of the foe. At last the fire of ever increasing intensity and the numerically superior strength of the enemy forced the withdrawal of the friendly unit. Again refusing evacuation and medical aid, Sergeant Burke insisted upon remaining with his men and directing their withdrawal. The outstanding gallantry and selfless actions displayed by Sergeant Burke during this action resulted in inflicting numerous casualties upon the enemy and reflects the highest credit upon himself and the military service.