The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant (Cavalry) John Knox Winn (ASN: 0-1030630), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 37th Cavalry Reconnaissance Troop, 37th Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy at Luzon, Philippine Islands, during World War II. During the period 9 January 1945 to 19 June 1945, Lieutenant Winn repeatedly displayed outstanding courage and combat efficiency while conducting combat and reconnaissance patrols which spearheaded the advance of an Infantry division down the Central Plain and up the Cagayan Valley. On one occasion near Malasiqui, he crawled to within ten yards of two enemy-held pillboxes, ascertained the exact location of the hostile positions, then crawled back to his vehicle under savage enemy fire, and employed a .50 caliber machine gun against the Japanese, neutralizing both emplacements and killing nine enemy soldiers. Another time he purposely drove a quarter-ton vehicle over a road in Manila in order to draw hostile fire and locate enemy positions. The accurate information which he obtained enabled our forces to eliminate opposition on the road. In the Cagayan Valley, when our advancing column was ambushed Lieutenant Winn courageously went forward six times under intense hostile fire in order to evacuate casualties. He also directed tank fire which effectively routed the Japanese force. During the entire Luzon Campaign, Lieutenant Winn exhibited courageous leadership, always taking the most advanced position himself when contact with the enemy was imminent. His gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.