The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class John R. Clark (MCSN: 1169176), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as an Automatic Rifleman of Company E, Second Battalion, Fifth Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on the night of 5 July 1952. During the heavy fighting which ensued in and around his combat outpost when a hostile force of estimated company strength attacked the position, Private First Class Clark bravely stationed himself outside his bunker to protect several wounded Marines who had been placed inside for security. While engaged in defending the bunker, he killed one of the enemy and wounded several others. Although seriously wounded himself in both arms and legs by fragments from two hostile grenades, and unable to move, he received a pistol from one of the other wounded men and stout-heartedly continued to protect his comrades until the action ended. By his courageous spirit of self-sacrifice, indomitable fortitude and resolute efforts in behalf of the other wounded, Private First Class Clark served to inspire all who observed him and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.