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 Sergeant First Class John W. Weske (ASN: RA-17285573), United States Army, for gallantry in connection with military operations against an opposing armed force while serving with Company I, 3d Battalion, 7th Infantry Regiment, 3d Infantry Division, in Korea. On 22 November 1951, near Kayaphari-sammel, Korea, as the weapons platoon of Company I under the leadership of Sergeant Weske, was relieving units of the British Commonwealth forces, it became subjected to an intense hostile mortar and artillery barrage, which inflicted numerous casualties upon the platoon. Realizing the seriousness of the situation, Sergeant Weske courageously left a position of comparative safety and, completely exposing himself to the withering enemy fire, selected a place for the establishment of the mortars which enabled them to return the fire upon the foe. While moving among his men shouting encouragement, a direct hit by a round of enemy artillery mortally wounded Sergeant Weske, but his superb leadership was directly responsible for placing the mortar section into action and completing the mission assigned to Company I. Sergeant Weske’s heroic and selfless performance of duty reflects the highest credit upon himself and the military service.