The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private First Class John R. Atencio (ASN: RA-19386733), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of the Medical Company, 38th Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy on 3 September 1951 in the vicinity of Taeusan, Korea. On this date Private Atencio was a member of a unit assaulting strategic positions defended by a fanatically determined hostile force. During the initial phase of the attack he voluntarily exposed himself to the enemy to render aid to his wounded comrades. Completely ignoring the danger to his own life, he advanced through the intense hostile automatic weapons fire to the sides of his fallen comrades and assisted in their evacuation. During this act, he observed a wounded soldier lying in a shell hole and half covered with water. Turning his back to the enemy in order to shield his wounded comrade with his own body, Private Atencio kneeled at the edge of the hole and pulled the man to safety. While still caring for the wounded, Private Atencio was fatally wounded. His heroic and selfless actions saved the lives of men who might otherwise have died of their wounds and greatly inspired all who witnessed his valiant deeds. The gallantry in action and self-sacrificing spirit displayed by Private Atencio reflect great credit upon himself and the military service.