The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star to Captain (Infantry), [then First Lieutenant] John Francis Ellis (ASN: 0-2017224), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Headquarters, 1st Battalion, 9th Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy on 27 and 28 August 1950 in the vicinity of Kwi-Dong, Korea. Captain Ellis volunteered to lead a reconnaissance patrol across the Naktong River to gain information of the enemy activities. Six enlisted men volunteered to accompany him on this patrol. On the night of 27 August 1950, the patrol crossed the river in rubber boats and moved into enemy territory. Throughout the 28th of August 1950 they remained in position at an observation post and directed artillery fire on enemy weapons and troop concentrations with devastating results. When the patrol’s radio became inoperative it was decided to return to friendly lines. Captain Ellis with the other members of his patrol then moved into the village of Kwi-Dong, captured two prisoners and returned with them to our lines. The information procured by the patrol and from the prisoners proved of great value to our forces. Captain Ellis’ courageous leadership and actions in leading this patrol and his complete disregard for his personal safety are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service.