The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain (Infantry) John Joseph Doody (ASN: 0-57630), United States Army, for gallantry in action as Commanding Officer of Company B, 1st Battalion, 21st Infantry Regiment, 24th Infantry Division, in action near Waegwan, Korea, on 19 September 1950. During the assault crossing of the Naktong River his company was subjected to intense mortar, machine gun and small arms fire. As the boats neared the enemy shore they became intermingled and their occupants disorganized. Utterly disregarding his own safety Captain Doody moved fearlessly among his men directing them to positions on the shore. Following the landing he set up a base of fire with his mortars and led a small group of his men in an assault on two enemy machine guns, destroying both guns and crew. Returning to the beach he organized a large body of his troops and fearlessly led the attack against the strongly entrenched enemy. Pressing the attack he continued to lead his men far into enemy territory inflicting heavy casualties, destroying much equipment and securing a beachhead which permitted the continued crossing of the river by succeeding assault troops. Captain Doody’s courageous actions, devotion to duty and inspiring leadership served well to inspire his men in their gallant assault and reflect the greatest credit on himself and the United States Infantry.