The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Corporal John A. Riggio (ASN: RA-26339623), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Tank Company, 38th Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy on 21 September 1950 in the vicinity of Chogye, Korea. Corporal Riggio was serving as gunner of a tank engaged in a tank-supported attack on hostile forces occupying strong defensive positions. In the course of the action the tank was disabled by two land mines. The tank commander ordered the crew to dismount and take up positions under cover as the tank was by now the target of heavy small arms, automatic weapons and antitank fire. In spite of the intense hostile fire Corporal Riggio dashed back to the tank and unassisted fired the machine guns and the tank’s main piece upon the enemy. Maintaining a steady and well directed fire upon the enemy for almost two hours, he contributed largely to preventing the enemy from launching a counterattack. He abandoned his tank only when his ammunition was exhausted and the guns were inoperative, thus rendering the tank of no use to the enemy in the event of its capture. The gallantry and complete disregard for personal safety displayed by Corporal Riggio reflect the highest credit upon himself are in keeping with the fine traditions of the military service.