The President of the United States of America takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private First Class John W. Mihalek (MCSN: 487472), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving with the First Battalion, Twenty-Ninth Marines, SECOND Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces north of Mt. Tapotchau on Saipan, Mariana Islands, 28 June 1944. Courageous and aggressive in the face of terrific fire from Japanese guns, Private First Class Mihalek rendered valuable service during initial operations on this strategically important enemy stronghold. Acting as point for a patrol sent out to locate a mortar position, he saw a Japanese ambush and, despite his own hazardous position, immediately fired on the enemy in an effort to warn his patrol. Although wounded, he continued to fire with such accuracy that he not only saved the lives of his comrades but also killed six of the eight Japanese in the ambush before he was mortally wounded. By his alert observation and heroic action, Private First Class Mihalek contributed materially to the ultimate success of this vital campaign pointing toward further victories over the Japanese. His self-sacrificing spirit and unwavering devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his comrades.