The President of the United States of America, under the provisions of the Act of Congress approved July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Distinguished Service Cross to Captain (Infantry) John C. Hughes (ASN: 0-58930), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United Nations while serving as Commanding Officer of Company K, 3d Battalion, 35th Infantry Regiment, 25th Infantry Division. Captain Hughes distinguished himself by extraordinary heroism in action against enemy aggressor forces at Ung-Pong, Korea, on 27 November 1950. Learning of an enemy breach through the right flank of his company’s sector which, seriously threatened the perimeter, Captain Hughes led a small force up a slope through mortar, grenade, and small-arms fire. Although wounded, he refused medical aid, gained the crest of the ridge, and recaptured a portion of the lost ground. Later, when enemy machine-gun fire raked his unit, he led a daring charge on the emplacement which annihilated the hostile crew with grenade and rifle fire and routed the remaining enemy from the ridge. Captain Hughes remained on the perimeter, repeatedly exposed himself to heavy fire to direct the defense until daylight, and refused evacuation until assured that the enemy attack was definitely repulsed. The indomitable fighting spirit, intense loyalty to his unit, and outstanding leadership displayed by Captain Hughes during his heroic exploits reflect the highest credit on himself and the Infantry and are in keeping with the finest traditions of the United States Army.