The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Staff Sergeant Peter J. Johansen (MCSN: 1099344), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as a Tank Section Leader of Company B, First Tank Battalion, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 17 August 1952. When his platoon was assigned the mission of furnishing close fire support to the infantry element aiding in the relief of an ambushed squad on an outpost position well forward of the main line of resistance, Staff Sergeant Johansen observed the enemy reinforcing their positions and expertly maneuvered his tank forward within 150 yards of the hostile troops in a brave attempt to protect the besieged Marines and deliver more effective fire upon the enemy emplacements. From this position, he unhesitatingly exposed himself to intense hostile artillery, mortar and small arms fire to employ his turret-mounted anti-aircraft machine gun and succeeded in killing thirteen of the enemy. By his courageous leadership, resolute determination and gallant devotion to duty, Staff Sergeant Johansen served to inspire all who observed him and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.