The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star to First Lieutenant (Infantry) John V. Szymanski (ASN: 0-2262341/RA-6912651), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company C, 23d Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy on 19 May 1951, in the vicinity of Hangye, Korea. On that date his unit was holding a vital sector of high ground in a battalion perimeter under savage attack by a numerically superior enemy force. When the enemy succeeded in overrunning a sector of the perimeter, Lieutenant Szymanski’s elements led a counterattack. In the battle which ensued, he stationed himself with the foremost elements of his unit and was seriously wounded. In spite of his wound he remained in this position shouting words of encouragement to his men and leading them until the lost ground had been regained. The gallantry and inspiring leadership displayed by Lieutenant Szymanski reflect great credit upon himself and uphold the highest traditions of the Military Service of the United States.

The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Second Lieutenant (Infantry) John V. Szymanski (ASN: 0-2262341/RA-6912651), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company C, 23d Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy on 19 September 1950 in the vicinity of Sinbanni, Korea. On that date, Lieutenant Syzmanski’s company was attacking enemy-held high ground and, during the final assault, ran short of ammunition. Although the road to the rear was subjected to enemy mortar and small arms fire, he volunteered to return for the required supplies. Upon his return he discovered that the enemy had launched a counterattack which had penetrated the company’s position and forced a squad to withdraw in a disorganized manner. Rallying his disheartened comrades he reorganized them into an efficient force and led them back up the hill. Although armed with only a pistol, he displayed complete indifference for his personal safety as he advanced fearlessly into the hostile field of fire. His intrepidity inspired his comrades and, following his heroic example, they charged the enemy forcing them to withdraw with severe casualties. During this assault Lieutenant Szymanski personally killed several enemy soldiers. The gallantry and inspirational leadership displayed on this occasion by Lieutenant Szymanski reflect great credit upon himself and the Armed Forces of the United States.