The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Sergeant John M. Twardowski (MCSN: 1890804), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as an Ammunition Technician with the Force Logistic Support Team, THIRD Marine Amphibious Force, in the Republic of Vietnam. On 30 January 1966, at Ammunition Supply Point ONE, fire erupted on a truck carrying several hundred pounds of 81-mm. mortar ammunition, creating imminent danger of explosion. Running to the platoon area while shouting a warning to personnel in the vicinity, Sergeant Twardowski picked up a fire extinguisher and without hesitation approached the burning truck. When the Ammunition Platoon Leader took the extinguisher from him and advised him to move away, Sergeant Twardowski promptly took another extinguisher and followed the Platoon Leader aboard the flaming vehicle, where he was again warned to leave the scene of potential disaster. He steadfastly refused to abandon his position, exchanging the extinguisher for a water host as soon as fire truck equipment could be employed, and assisted in fighting the blaze until the fire was out and the ammunition cooled to a degree where explosion was less likely. His unhesitating action in the face of extreme danger helped prevent a serious situation which, except for the swift measures which were taken, undoubtedly would have resulted in extensive loss of life and equipment. By his extraordinary heroism, brilliant initiative and unfaltering dedication to duty throughout, Sergeant Twardowski upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.