The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private Richard W. Jancovich (ASN: RA-16311663), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 35th Infantry Regiment, 25th Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy in Korea. On the night of 31 August 1950, Private Jancovich was stationed as a machine gunner with Republic of Korea forces during a strong hostile attack. Despite an intense automatic weapons, mortar and artillery barrage, he remained in his exposed position and directed a heavy volume of effective counterfire at the onrushing enemy. Although often subjected to close proximity grenade attack and virtually surrounded by infiltrating enemy, he dispersed every enemy assault during the ensuing five hours until counterattacking forces had secured the line. Private Jancovich’s courage, determination and selfless devotion to duty are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.