The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Corporal John Stump, Jr. (ASN: RA-19350817), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company L, 3d Battalion, 7th Infantry Regiment, 3d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy in Korea. On 31 March 1951, near Anhung-ni, Korea, Corporal Stump’s platoon was attacked by an enemy force that threatened to overrun the area. Corporal Stump assisted the gunner in moving their weapon to a position that flanked the enemy and began to pour devastating fire, forcing the enemy to withdraw beyond grenade range, though the machine gun position was exposed to severe return fire, Corporal Stump and the gunner voluntarily remained in position, knocking out an enemy machine gun and automatic rifle. At a critical point in the engagement, the two were told that they could withdraw but they refused, insisting that the tide of battle could be turned in their present position. So strong was the enemy desire to destroy the weapon that hand grenades landed within two feet of the gun barrel. Corporal Stump’s gallantry and extreme devotion to duty reflects the highest credit upon himself and are in keeping with the esteemed traditions of the military service.