The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private First Class John Allen Payne (ASN: US-26240641), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of the Medical Company, 7th Infantry Regiment, 3d Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in Korea. On the night of 5 April 1952, near Chokko-Ri, Korea, a reinforced squad from Company A was occupying an outpost position approximately two miles forward of the friendly main line of resistance when the outpost was subjected to a devastating barrage of hostile mortar fire. The intense enemy fire immediately inflicted numerous casualties. Completely disregarding his personal safety Private Payne, a medical aidman, moved over the fire-swept terrain, administering first aid and offering words of encouragement to the wounded. When it became apparent that they could not withstand the tremendous enemy onslaught, the friendly troops were ordered to withdraw. Observing a seriously wounded man unable to withdraw unassisted, Private Payne stopped, placed a tourniquet on the man’s shattered leg, then personally carried him to a protected place along the route of withdrawal, despite the fact that he also was injured and that the added burden greatly endangered his own chance of reaching safety. After placing his wounded comrade in the protected position, Private Payne took an automatic rifle and covered the withdrawal of the squad but while he was attempting to withdraw, he was fatally wounded by the withering hail of enemy fire. Private Payne’s skill as a medical aidman, his devotion to duty and his gallant and daring actions were instrumental in saving the life of a fellow soldier and reflects the highest credit upon himself and the military service.