The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Sergeant John P. Bodnar (MCSN: 300641), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with the Marine Detachment, American Embassy, London, England, in the performance of Specialized Duties in enemy-controlled territory, and subsequently as a Prisoner of War of the German Government, from 1 August 1944 to 27 April 1945. After parachuting into southeastern France, Sergeant Bodnar participated in numerous dangerous reconnaissances, the last of which resulted in surrender to the enemy, to which he unselfishly agreed in order to spare the townspeople of Dentron from German reprisals. Subsequently imprisoned and subject to numerous interrogations, Sergeant Bodnar refused to divulge information. His heroic conduct and unwavering devotion to duty throughout an extremely hazardous and important mission were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.