The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Second Lieutenant John Wesley Alling, Jr. (MCSN: 0-55852), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as a Combat Patrol Leader of Company F, Second Battalion, First Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on the early morning of 19 December 1952. After skillfully leading his patrol well forward of the main line of resistance during the hours of darkness, Second Lieutenant Alling established contact with a numerically superior hostile force and fearlessly directed a determined counterattack against the enemy. When the unit was subjected to an intense hostile mortar barrage during the course of the ensuing battle, he was ordered to disengage immediately and withdraw his men to friendly lines. Although mortally wounded by enemy fire while directing the withdrawal, Second Lieutenant Alling steadfastly refused to be evacuated to the main lines. By his courageous leadership, aggressive fighting spirit and selfless devotion to duty, he served to inspire all who observed him and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.