The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Corporal John A. Kaczmarek (MCSN: 1071916), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as Crew Chief of a Helicopter in Marine Observation Squadron SIX (VMO-6), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea from 17 to 21 September 1950. Voluntarily accompanying a helicopter pilot to rescue a carrier-based aircraft pilot who had been shot down behind enemy lines, Corporal Kaczmarek assisted the downed pilot in climbing aboard the hovering helicopter. On another occasion, he again volunteered to assist on a similar mission and, after arriving at the scene of the crash, immediately alighted from the helicopter and rushed to the aid of an injured fighter pilot. After helping the casualty out of his crashed aircraft and into the helicopter, Corporal Kaczmarek rendered first aid and assisted in making the injured pilot as comfortable as possible while en route to the hospital. His courage, initiative and concern for the safety of others reflect the highest credit upon Corporal Kaczmarek and the United States Naval Service.