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) John Rodway Mackert (ASN: 0-59146), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 2d Battalion, 19th Infantry Regiment, 24th Infantry Division (then a member of Company F, 2d Battalion, 19th Infantry Regiment, 24th Infantry Division), near Ori-Tong, Korea, on 5 November 1951. His platoon had the mission of moving up a valley, between enemy-held hills, on a combat patrol. Having reached the destination without incident, Lieutenant Mackert, Platoon Leader, was leading his men back to friendly lines when the group was suddenly subjected to an intense concentrated enemy mortar barrage. As the riflemen tried to escape from the explosions, the enemy pinned them down with murderous machine gun crossfire. The numerically superior enemy force then launched a savage attack. But under Lieutenant Mackert’s skillful leadership, the friendly troops repelled the charge and began to withdraw. The enemy pressed harder, however, and attempted to outflank his unit, making it virtually impossible for it to disengage. With complete disregard for his own safety, Lieutenant Mackert ordered his men to withdraw and remained to provide covering fire. Taking an exposed position, he fired with devastating accuracy into the enemy hordes, wounding many and forcing the others to seek cover. He then rejoined his men, who had escaped from the trap only to be stopped by an enemy force which had moved to their rear. Lieutenant Mackert fearlessly attacked the key hostile machine gun position, killing all three gunners. Meanwhile, all his men fought their way through except for one wounded soldier. Oblivious to the enemy fire, he picked the man up and carried him to safety. Lieutenant Mackert’s courageous action, exemplary leadership and selfless performance of duty reflect the highest credit on himself and the United States Infantry.