The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star (Army Award) to Sergeant John R. Previte (MCSN: 857110), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as a member of the Fourth Battalion, Eleventh Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in the vicinity of Yanggu Korea, on 3 July 1951. On that date, Sergeant Previte was in charge of a 155 millimeter howitzer section, which was engaged in an artillery duel with enemy artillery. Giving commands and shouting words of encouragement to the gun crew, Sergeant Previte kept his howitzer in continuous action, despite intense enemy fire on his position. In the heat of the battle, a direct hit was received in the powder magazine of his section, causing a tremendous explosion, blowing up a large part of the ammunition and damaging the howitzer beyond further use. Although wounded by shell fragments and exploding powder, Sergeant Previte directed the evacuation of his crew from the gun pit and personally removed a seriously wounded cannoneer to safety. The outstanding leadership, gallantry, and high devotion to duty displayed by Sergeant Previte on this occasion reflect great credit on himself and the military service.