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 (Infantry) John L. Boyer (ASN: 0-1337268), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company D, 23d Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy on 19 September 1950 in the vicinity of Sinban-ni, Korea. On that date the 75-mm. recoilless rifle section commanded by Lieutenant Boyer was attached to a rifle company, with the mission of rendering supporting fire while that unit attacked Hill 272. Under intense enemy artillery, mortar, machine gun and small arms fire he placed his weapons in an exposed position in order to render better support to the assault platoons. The rifle company could not advance under the relentless hostile fire and was forced to withdraw. In order to cover the withdrawal of the rifle elements, Lieutenant Boyer led his section up an adjacent ridge. He secured the most vulnerable positions against enemy attack and formed a base upon which the company fell back. That night the enemy began a series of attacks against the defensive perimeter. With complete disregard for his personal safety, he exposed himself to heavy enemy fire as he moved along the portion of the line defended by his section. On one occasion he climbed aboard a tank and, despite the enemy fire directed at him, fired the .50 caliber machine gun with deadly accuracy, inflicting heavy losses upon the enemy. His exemplary conduct under fire was an inspiration to his men and was greatly instrumental to the successful defense of the position. The gallantry displayed on this occasion by Lieutenant Boyer reflects the highest great upon himself is in keeping with the fine traditions of the military service.