The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain John F. McMahon, Jr. (MCSN: 0-32949), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as Commanding Officer of Company C, First Battalion, Seventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 12 September 1951. Assigned the mission of seizing the key terrain of a heavily fortified enemy hill position in the vicinity of Inje, Captain McMahon fearlessly exposed himself to devastating enemy artillery, mortar, automatic weapons an small arms fire to skillfully direct his men and encourage them in overcoming the fierce hostile resistance. After expertly seizing his objective, he quickly reorganized his company and continued to hold the position despite constant heavy enemy mortar and artillery barrages. By his aggressive leadership, outstanding tactical ability and unswerving devotion to duty, Captain McMahon contributed materially to the success of the battalion and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.