The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant John J. Swords (MCSN: 0-49727), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity as a Platoon Commander of Company A, First Battalion, First Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea on 25 April 1951. While participating in a company attack against a strongly defended hostile position, the platoon was subjected to an intense barrage of enemy mortar fire which caused numerous casualties and forced the company to halt temporarily in order to reorganize. Realizing that many of the casualties required immediate medical attention, First Lieutenant Swords bravely moved across 500 yards of open, fire-swept terrain to reach a friendly tank platoon and guide them to his company position. Continuing to expose himself to the intense hostile fire while directing the placing of the wounded on the tanks and the evacuation of the casualties to the aid station, he contributed materially to the saving of many lives which would have been lost without prompt medical attention. By his outstanding courage, skill and selfless efforts in behalf of others, First Lieutenant Swords served to inspire all who observed his heroic actions and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.