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 K. Trout (ASN: RA-7005508), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company K, 38th Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy on 27 November 1950 in the vicinity of Semin-dong, Korea. On that date Sergeant Trout’s company was subjected to a fierce assault launched by an enemy force of estimated battalion strength. After beating off repeated attacks the company received orders to withdraw in order to effect a junction with other elements of the regiment. Carrying its casualties the company started a fighting withdrawal. Approximately one hour after departure the withdrawal had developed into a running firefight in order to escape complete envelopment of the company by the enemy. Sergeant Trout, with complete indifference for his personal safety, remained with the rear guard, directing their fire and insuring that the slow-moving group of casualties was not left behind. About half way through the withdrawal the company was subjected to intense hostile fire from the front, rear, and both flanks and capture or annihilation of the entire group seemed inevitable. Quickly analyzing the situation, Sergeant Trout led the group of men from the rear guard along a riverbed and succeeded in leading this force onto commanding ground where he established an effective base of fire. When ammunition became low, he fearlessly moved across the fire-swept terrain to an abandoned ammunition truck and returned to the firing line with a supply of ammunition. The inspiring leadership and heroic conduct of Sergeant Trout under these hazardous conditions were highly instrumental to the success of his company in breaking through the enemy ambush with few additional casualties. The gallantry and outstanding leadership displayed by Sergeant Trout reflect great credit upon himself and are in keeping with the high traditions of the military service.