The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Second Lieutenant John W. Beck (MCSN: 0-52704), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving as a Platoon Commander of Company I, Third Battalion, First Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in Korea, on 13 August 1952. When his unit was engaged in the defense of a strategically important hill position well forward of friendly lines, Second Lieutenant Beck courageously exposed himself to intense enemy small arms, mortar and artillery fire, moving amongst his men, directing their fire and encouraging them. On numerous occasions the company’s perimeter of defense was assaulted by a numerically superior enemy force, and on each occasion, Second Lieutenant Beck skillfully maneuvered his men to aid in repelling the enemy. After these assaults, he rapidly reorganized and redeployed the platoon. Later, he dauntlessly led his platoon in a flanking movement around the hill to rout entrenched enemy troops. Second Lieutenant Beck’s selfless devotion to duty and outstanding leadership were inspirational to all who observed him. His gallant and heroic actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.