The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Sonarman First Class John B. Freeman (NSN: 2249200), United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in the rescue of wounded personnel aboard the U.S.S. BRUSH (DD-745), on 26 September 1950, when the BRUSH struck an enemy mine in North Korean waters. Sonarman First Class Freeman displayed exceptional courage and disregard for his own safety by entering the Magazine, Mess Hall, and Sonar Room in the damage area of the ship to rescue personnel through fire, smoke, fuel oil, and debris. He returned again and again to these spaces until he had removed all personnel in the face of electrical fires, heavy smoke and fumes. Sonarman First Class Freeman’s courageous actions, at the risk of his own life, directly contributed to the prompt medical attention received by the wounded and their subsequent recover, and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.