The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to First Lieutenant (Infantry) John Thomas Corley, Jr., United States Army, for gallantry in action while engaged in military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force in the Republic of Vietnam. First Lieutenant Corley distinguished himself by exceptionally valorous actions while serving as Platoon leader of the Reconnaissance Platoon of the 1st Battalion, 27th Infantry Regiment, 25th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 8 September 1968. While on a reconnaissance in force operation, First Lieutenant Corley’s platoon came under intense small arms fire from two well concealed bunkers. With complete disregard for his own safety, First Lieutenant Corley moved forward to investigate the situation and found the point man critically wounded. Despite heavy communist fire, he rushed forward and threw a grenade into one of the bunkers. As First Lieutenant Corley raised up to throw another grenade he was fatally wounded by hostile fire. First Lieutenant Corley’s personal bravery, aggressiveness, and devotion to duty are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service.