The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Master Sergeant John M. Pater (ASN: RA-12268080), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company K, 38th Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 3 September 1951 in the vicinity of Kach’il-bong, Korea. On this date, during an attack on hostile positions, Company K met heavy enemy resistance of small arms, automatic weapons, and grenade fire. Sergeant Pater, with complete disregard for his personal safety, continuously exposed himself to enemy fire while leading his unit in the attack. Throughout this action, he remained with forward elements and directed the fire of his men. When the gunner of a recoilless rifle was wounded, Sergeant Pater unhesitatingly operated the weapon and employed devastating fire upon hostile positions, inflicting numerous casualties upon the enemy. By his undaunted leadership, the men of his unit were inspired to greater heights of daring to successfully overrun hostile positions and secure their objective with a minimum of casualties. The gallantry and outstanding devotion to duty displayed by Sergeant Pater on this occasion reflect great credit upon himself and the military service.