The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Sergeant First Class John H. Cook (ASN: RA-13137263), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Headquarters, 2d Infantry Division, gallantry in action against the enemy on 29 November to 1 December 1950 in the vicinity of Kunu-ri, Korea. On those dates the command post of the 2d Infantry Division was attacked by numerically superior enemy forces. Sergeant Cook voluntarily organized a group of assistant drivers and conducted their firing on the enemy, continually exposing himself to the heavy enemy fire to better direct this fire. During the withdrawal of the division and its movement through the enemy ambuscade, Sergeant Cook exhibited determined courage and outstanding leadership. His expert driving ability and constant disregard for enemy fire while operating a light machine gun greatly aided in the successful withdrawal of the unit. In addition to this he performed missions on foot and aided in evacuating the wounded to positions of safety, which undoubtedly saved the lives of many of his comrades. The gallantry in action displayed by Sergeant Cook reflects great credit upon himself and the military service.