The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the

 

SILVER STAR MEDAL to

 

2ndLT

JOHN J. H. CAHILL

UNITED STATES MARINE CORPS

 

for service as set forth in the following

 

CITATION:

 

"The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star (Army Award) to Second Lieutenant John J. H. Cahill, United States Marine Corps, for gallantry in action against an armed enemy of the United Nations in southern Korea during the period 6 August to 8 August 1950. On 6 August 1950, Lieutenant Cahill, leader of a reinforced Marine rifle platoon of fifty-seven men from Company G, 3d Battalion, Fifth Marine Regiment, FIRST Marine Division (Reinforced), attached to the 5th United States Army Regimental Combat Team, was ordered to relieve an Infantry company and to occupy and hold the high ground adjacent to a village in the Chingdong-Ni area. The position was completely isolated from friendly forces, and was vital to the successful advance of the combat team and the security of the main supply route. Immediately after digging in on the perimeter of defense which afforded little Concealment, the platoon was subjected to continuous and intense enemy fire. With limited food and ammunition and no possibility for resupply, Lieutenant Cahill courageously and successfully directed his platoon's defense against an estimated strength of four hundred. While holding the almost untenable position, Lieutenant Cahill, continually exposing himself to heavy hostile fire, moved from man to man, encouraging and reassuring them until relief arrived about 0900 on 8 August 1950. It was largely due to his inspirational leadership and dauntless courage that the enemy failed in its attempt to break through this vital United Nations' defensive position. Lieutenant Cahill's outstanding and valorous conduct was in keeping with the highest military traditions."

 

 

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