The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Sergeant Johnson A. Lykens (MCSN: 1013477), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as a Machine Gun Squad Leader of Company B, First Battalion, First Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces during a reconnaissance mission in the vicinity of Yanggu, Korea, on 15 July 1951. When the forward elements of his platoon unknowingly entered a hostile minefield and the platoon leader and numerous others became casualties, Sergeant Lykens immediately assumed command during the absence of the platoon sergeant and, quickly establishing a defense guard against possible enemy attack, repeatedly scouted for a safe route through the minefield while supervising the treatment and evacuation of casualties. Although seriously wounded by an exploding mine, he steadfastly remained in the danger area until all other wounded had been evacuated and the platoon sergeant reassumed command. By his outstanding courage, daring initiative and zealous devotion to duty, he served to inspire all who observed him and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.