The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class John Gamez (ASN: RA-15417413), 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 11 September 1950 in the vicinity of Sin-Dong-Yang, Korea. On that date the platoon in which Private Gamez was a rifleman was under heavy enemy attack. When the enemy closed to within 20 yards of the platoon’s position Private Gamez was wounded. Although ordered to retire for medical treatment he chose to remain with his comrades and continued to engage the enemy in the firefight. A short time later he was again wounded by a grenade blast and was directed to the rear by his platoon leader. Realizing that every man and weapon was desperately needed in the line and although he was bleeding profusely he again refused to leave the firing line and moved to the right, protecting that flank by his rifle fire. With complete disregard for his personal safety he continued to deliver fire against the enemy until the attack had been repulsed with over 100 casualties inflicted upon the enemy. Only when the enemy had been driven off did Private Gamez allow himself to be evacuated to the rear for medical treatment. His intrepidity under fire and his devotion to his comrades reflect great credit upon himself and are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service.