The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class John Michael Semenuk (MCSN: 2181793), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving as an Artillery Forward Observer with Company A, First Battalion, First Marines, FIRST Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, on 25 September 1966 in connection with combat operations against insurgent communist (Viet Cong) forces in the Republic of Vietnam. During a combat patrol south of DaNang, Private First Class Semenuk’s unit was ambushed by enemy forces, wounding three Marines during the initial burst of fire and grenade attack. Within minutes, three more men became casualties. Realizing that the proximity of the enemy to friendly forces was such that artillery supporting fire would be hazardous to his own unit, he assumed the duties of a rifleman and daringly advanced into the area of the fire fight. With complete disregard for his own safety, he rushed forward, leaping over his fallen comrades and delivered heavy suppressive fire on the enemy positions concealed in the thick brush and trees. He selflessly remained in a position exposed to enemy fire to assist in the evacuation of the wounded men and subsequently provided security for the landing zone while the wounded Marines were evacuated by helicopter to safety. His heroic actions undoubtedly saved numerous lives and were instrumental in causing the main enemy force to break contact. By his uncommon initiative, superior judgment, great courage and inspiring devotion to duty, Private First Class Semenuk upheld the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and of the United States Naval Service.