The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class John P. Gogan (MCSN: 1125923), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving with a Machine Gun Squad of Company H, Third Battalion, Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 11 September 1951. When heavy enemy small arms and automatic weapons fire wounded the gunner and assistant gunner during a company attack against bitterly defended positions, Private First Class Gogan immediately placed a large quantity of ammunition beside the weapon and assumed position as gunner, skillfully and calmly pouring devastating fire upon the hostile troops. Subsequently the only main remaining in his squad, he effectively displaced his gun to a more strategic position and continued to employ his weapon for an estimated four hours, constantly harassing the enemy in support of his company. By his outstanding courage, marked fortitude and zealous devotion to duty, Private First Class Gogan served to inspire all who observed him and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.