The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant John A. Dudrey (MCSN: 0-35180), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Executive Officer of the Anti-tank Company, First Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 10 December 1950. With his unit halted by an attack from numerically superior enemy forces during the movement from Koto-ri to Hamhung, First Lieutenant Dudrey continually exposed himself to intense hostile automatic weapons, mortar and small arms fire to assist in organizing a defensive perimeter. His timely action and skillful tactics were contributing factors in the successful defense of the position with heavy casualties to the enemy. By his marked courage, expert leadership and unswerving devotion to duty, First Lieutenant Dudrey served to inspire all who observed him and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.