The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to First Lieutenant John S. Gray (MCSN: 0-54459), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as an Artillery Forward Observer of Company E, Second Battalion, Fifth Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on the night of 28 – 29 March 1953. Participating in the company’s night assault against a vital enemy-held outpost position located well forward of the main line of resistance, First Lieutenant Gray bravely exposed himself to murderous hostile mortar and artillery fire throughout the vicious attack to personally adjust the fire of friendly supporting arms. When the objective was attained, he courageously made his way through the deadly hostile fire to the forward slope of the position to better observe and adjust friendly fires and, repeatedly moving from one position to another, expertly directed his men in repulsing an enemy counterattack. Mortally wounded while engaged in this hazardous undertaking, First Lieutenant Gray, by his outstanding courage, indomitable fighting spirit and gallant devotion to duty, served to inspire all who observed him and upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.