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 A. Maxson (ASN: 0-1328721), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Headquarters, 2d Battalion, 38th Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy on 20 and 21 September 1952 in the vicinity of Chorwon, North Korea. During an assault by the 2d Battalion on enemy-held “Old Baldy”, Captain Maxson was in a position at the Forward Battalion Aid Station performing his duties as Adjutant and, in addition, assisting the Medical Aid Men in recovering the wounded from the battlefield. Captain Maxson brought order out of disorder by organizing a platoon-sized group of men that had been driven back from an earlier assault. Speaking words of encouragement and instilling confidence in them once again, he led theme men through a lethal rain of enemy mortar and artillery shells, half-way up the side of “Old Baldy”. At this point, Captain Maxson, with complete disregard for personal safety, fearlessly charged alone up the slope, hurling hand grenades into bunkers along his route to ensure a safe route of approach for his men. Upon reaching the summit of the hill, he courageously exposed himself, purposely standing in full view to ascertain that the route was clear, after which he returned to his men, and led them to their objective on the crest of the hill. After the junction of the friendly forces had been made, Captain Maxson assumed command of the various defending elements of two companies. Through a lethal bombardment of hostile mortar and artillery fire, he moved among his men in their newly secured defensive positions, organizing and coordinating their activities in preparation for an enemy counter-attack. Captain Maxson’s courageous and inspiring action was instrumental in securing Hill 266, and reflects the highest credit upon himself and the military service.