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 [then Corporal] John E. Humkey (ASN: US-52078828), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company G, 9th Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 27 August 1951 in the vicinity of Yanggu, Korea. On this date immediately after securing a vital enemy force who began to overrun friendly positions. Although the enemy was inflicting friendly casualties all about him, Sergeant Humkey remained at his machine gun position. Refusing to leave, he continued firing his weapon to cover the withdrawal of his unit and inflict heavy casualties on the advancing hostile force. Only after the wounded and remaining friendly forces had withdrawn safely, did he leave his position. While withdrawing, he inflicted several enemy casualties as they attempted to stop him. The gallantry in action and devotion to duty and comrades displayed by Sergeant Humkey reflects great credit upon himself and the military service.