The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain John Kovacs (MCSN: 0-8793), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as commanding officer of a rifle company while attached to the Third Battalion, Third Marines, THIRD Marine Division, during action against enemy Japanese forces in the Battle of Piva Forks, Bougainville Island, Solomon Islands, on November 24, 1943. Initiating the attack on a strongly entrenched and concealed enemy position, Captain Kovacs led his troops into action but sustained extremely heavy casualties under the severe fire of the Japanese. With complete disregard for his own personal safety, Captain Kovacs, advancing in full view of the enemy, approached under withering fire and reconnoitered hostile positions. Returning to his troops, he led them in an assault on the enemy’s flank and, although wounded during this attack, remained in action until the Japanese position had been overwhelmed. His valiant fighting spirit and his inspiring fortitude in the face of grave danger were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.