The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant (Corps of Engineers) John M. Chaney (ASN: 0-2203171), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company A, 2d Engineer Combat Battalion, 2d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy on 31 August 1951 in the vicinity of Pia-ri, Korea. On that date Lieutenant Chaney led an Engineer minesweeping detail to the rear of enemy-held Hills 773 and 940 to sweep and clear the area thus enabling tanks to maneuver and fire on the reverse slopes upon the determined hostile force which was under attack of our friendly Infantry forces. His unit suffering many casualties from enemy mortar and artillery fire, Lieutenant Chaney without regard for his safety exposed himself to the intense enemy fire and directed the evacuation of the wounded men back to friendly lines. As Lieutenant Chaney led another minesweeping detail into enemy-held territory, a tank dozer which was being used to fill a large road crater and eliminate an enemy road block was knocked out of action by enemy bazookas and anti-tank fire resulting in more friendly casualties. Again in complete disregard for his safety Lieutenant Chaney led his men and evacuated the wounded from the disabled tank dozer. The gallantry in action displayed by Lieutenant Chaney on this occasion was an inspiration to his men and in keeping with the esteemed traditions of military service.