The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Major John Paul Brody (MCSN: 0-6451), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action Executive Officer of the First Battalion, third Marines, THIRD Marine Division, in the landing at Cape Torokina, Bougainville Island, on 1 November 1943. Upon being informed that his Commanding Officer had been severely wounded, Major Brody unhesitatingly made his way through 300 yards of open ground in the face of intense enemy machine-gun, rifle, and mortar fire to reach the command post and receive his instructions. Subsequently assuming command of the battalion, he left the comparatively safe position he was occupying and, exposing himself continually to hostile fire, went among his units to establish contact between them and coordinate their efforts. Throughout this engagement and later, during the battle of the Koromokina River, he carried out numerous hazardous reconnaissance missions, gathering information of vital importance to the efficient operation of the battalion. Major Brody’s inspiring leadership and valiant devotion to duty under extremely difficult conditions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.