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 L. Buckley (ASN: 0-513497), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Company A, 1st Battalion, 27th Infantry Regiment, 25th Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy in Korea. During the night of 23 July 1950, Captain Buckley led a large combat patrol to the vicinity of Sangyong-ni, Korea. Selecting a position commanding the approaches to a bridge, Captain Buckley deployed his troops for ambush. A platoon of enemy advanced on the position and was annihilated by the murderous surprise cross fires. Shortly thereafter, a hostile company attacked and suffered such heavy casualties that it was forced to retreat in panic. Captain Buckley’s cool determination, courageous leadership, and military skill resulted in over 100 enemy casualties, deceived and harassed the attacking forces, and reflected great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the Military Service of the United States.

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. Buckley (ASN: 0-513497), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 1st Battalion, 27th Infantry Regiment, 25th Infantry Division, in action against an armed enemy in Korea. On 2 August 1950, near Chusen-ri, Korea, Lieutenant Buckley commanded the lead company in a battalion attack 20 miles into enemy territory. When intense hostile rifle, machine gun and anti-tank fire from three sides disabled two of his five tanks and stopped the column, Lieutenant Buckley moved forward through the heavy fire to the lead platoon. During the ensuing two hour fire fight, he moved about among he men directing fire, lending encouragement and improving positions. By his heroic leadership and calm courage, Lieutenant Buckley inspired his men to rout the enemy and continue the battalion attack. His action were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.