The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Second Lieutenant John J. Ross, III (MCSN: 0-52266), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as an Artillery Forward Observer of Battery D, Second Battalion, Eleventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 6 July 1952. Moving out with the assault company during the support of an infantry battalion which was engaged in a night attack against enemy-held positions, Second Lieutenant Ross skillfully adjusted artillery fires on enemy pockets of resistance to assist the advance of the infantry. Forced to leave his wire communication behind as hostile mortar and small arms fire increased, he continued the advance with his radio operator and scout sergeant and, when the infantry company commander and his executive officer were wounded, bravely moved forward with the assault elements, calmly calling in artillery fire. Although painfully wounded by flying shrapnel, he remained with the assaulting elements and, upon withdrawal of the infantry company, maintained his position to direct vital artillery covering fire. Before returning to friendly lines, he succeeded in removing a seriously wounded member of his team to a safe position. By his inspiring leadership, courageous initiative and unwavering devotion to duty, Second Lieutenant Ross upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.