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 First Class John J. Parker (ASN: RA-35962769), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company A, 23d Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy on 31 July 1952 in the vicinity of Chorwon, North Korea. On that date Sergeant Parker, serving as platoon sergeant, was assigned the mission of securing a vital position on Hill 266, commonly known as “Old Baldy”. As he and his platoon approached the objective, they were subjected to heavy mortar fire which halted their advance. As the unit gained the crest of the hill, they were met by heavy enemy automatic weapons and grenade fire. Although painfully wounded, Sergeant Parker, with complete disregard for personal safety, laid in his exposed position on the fire swept area and continued to direct his men by calling and shouting orders to them. Sergeant Parker’s heroic efforts so inspired the remainder of his unit that they rushed forward and secured the objective, completely routing the enemy. The gallantry in action displayed by Sergeant Parker reflects great credit upon himself and the military service.