The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private First Class John Theodore Howell (MCSN: 663518), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as a member of a Demolition Team of Company D, First Engineer Battalion, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 15 March 1951. With his company pinned down by enemy fire from a heavily fortified hostile emplacement during an assault against deeply entrenched enemy positions, Private First Class Howell unhesitatingly left his covered position and, under direct small arms and machine gun fire, boldly moved forward to an exposed area to destroy the emplacement with a demolition charge. Although fatally struck down while carrying out his valiant action, Private First Class Howell, by his daring initiative, indomitable courage and grave concern for others, contributed to the success achieved by his battalion and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.