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 (Infantry), [then Second Lieutenant] John L. Hastie (ASN: 0-2210631), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Headquarters Company (then Company E), 2d Battalion, 23d Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy on 14 September 1951 in the vicinity of Satae-Ri, Korea. On that date, the platoon which Lieutenant Hastie commanded was given the mission of rescuing another platoon which had become pinned down in their attempt to attack and secure the northernmost peak of Heartbreak Ridge. The hostile enemy force was well entrenched in cleverly concealed positions and had direct observation for their mortar, automatic weapons and small arms fire. Without hesitating and with utter disregard for his own personal safety, Lieutenant Hastie assumed the position of lead scout and led his men onward into the devastating enemy fire. Upon making contact with the other platoon he immediately took command of it and directed its strategic withdrawal through his own platoon. Moving from man to man, fully exposing himself to a withering hail of hostile fire, Lieutenant Hastie directed each individual, including the wounded, to safety. Although Lieutenant Hastie was wounded during this action, he continued to direct operations until the other platoon was out of direct enemy fire. Lieutenant Hastie then took up the rear guard action, holding his position while his platoon moved out to safety. Only when all were safe, did Lieutenant Hastie leave the battle scarred terrain. Lieutenant Hastie’s inspirational and courageous conduct during this engagement were directly responsible for the successful completion of his platoon’s mission. The gallantry in action displayed by Lieutenant Hastie reflects the highest credit upon himself and upholds the highest traditions of the military service.