The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain (Infantry), [then First Lieutenant] John G. Mantalas (ASN: 0-63064), United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as a Platoon Leader with Company A, 1st Battalion, 65th Infantry Regiment, 3d Infantry Division. On 4 June 1951, Captain Mantalas led his platoon in an attack on well-fortified enemy position near Anu, Korea. The hostile force commanded excellent observation and fields of fire of the surrounding territory and for several days had repulsed heavy attacks by friendly troops. Despite intense hostile fire, the platoon advanced to a strip of open terrain that was covered by devastating enemy automatic weapons fire. Fully exposing himself to the lethal hail of fire, Captain Mantalas dashed across the fire-swept terrain, firing his carbine at a rapid rate. This aggressive and unexpected action took the foe by surprise and forced him to temporarily seek cover, enabling the friendly force to cross the open terrain. The advance continued to the base of a huge boulder, from which the enemy rained down a terrific barrage of hand grenades. After an attack from both the right and left flank had failed and realizing that immediate action must be taken to prevent his platoon’s annihilation, Captain Mantalas completely disregarded his personal safety as he climbed over the great obstruction, shouting, and firing his weapon with deadly accuracy. Inspired by their leader’s courageous actions, the friendly troops rose from their positions and, with renewed spirit, surmounted the boulder and completely routed the foe. Captain Mantalas’ outstanding gallantry and initiative were directly responsible for the capture of the strategically important position and reflect the highest credit upon himself and the military service.