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 A. Sokol (ASN: RA-16368889), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company C, 38th Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy on 2 September 1951 in the vicinity of Taeusan, Korea. On this date Company C was attacking a key terrain feature defended by a determined and heavily armed hostile force. Private Sokol, a rifleman, on various occasions during this action, displayed exceptional courage and was responsible for numerous enemy casualties. As his platoon continued the assault, an intense hail of hostile fore halted its advance. Completely disregarding his personal safety, Private Sokol voluntarily ascended a ridge line to an exposed position and began firing on the enemy. His efforts brought the enemy’s attention to himself and enabled his comrades to advance. While fearlessly remaining in this position, Private Sokol was fatally wounded by the enemy fire. His self-sacrificing devotion to duty and courage were an inspiration to his comrades and enabled them to secure their objective. The gallantry in action displayed by Private Sokol reflects great credit upon himself and the military service.