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 First Class John Luther Nelson (ASN: US-53037904), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company E, 38th Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 5 August 1951 in the vicinity of Pia-ri, Korea. On this date during an assault on a strategic enemy-held hill, Company E was pinned down by intense artillery, mortar, small arms, and automatic weapons fire from a numerically superior enemy force. When the intensity of the hostile fire increased, friendly forces were forced to withdraw to better tactical positions. During this withdrawal, Private Nelson noticed a comrade badly wounded and unable to assist himself. Without hesitating and disregarding his personal safety, he crawled over the hazardous terrain under the intense enemy fire to the side of the wounded man. He immediately administered first aid and carried his wounded comrade over the same impact area to a position of safety. His daring act of bravery under fire was an inspiration to the men of his unit and was undoubtedly responsible for saving the life of his comrade. The gallantry in action and devotion to duty displayed by Private Nelson on this occasion reflects great credit upon himself and the military service.