John J. Ivers

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to John J. Ivers (654965), Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with a Marine Infantry Battalion of the FIRST Marine Division (Rein), FMF, in Korea, on 3 November 1950. As a Radio Operator attached to a Rifle Company, Corporal Ivers has consistently performed his duties in an outstanding manner, displaying at all times a high degree of professional skill and courage. During darkness on 3 November 1950, Corporal Ivers was in position at the Company Command Post when it was brought under heavy attack by enemy forces using small arms, automatic weapons, grenades and mortars. Corporal Ivers turned his radio over to another qualified operator and joined in the defense of the Command Post. With absolute disregard for his safety, he continually exposed himself to enemy fire in order to bring accurate fire to bear on enemy positions. When a group of the enemy was discovered moving up a covered route leading to high ground which overlooked the Command Post, Corporal Ivers voluntarily and on his own initiative, collected all available hand grenades and moved alone to the high ground in order to intercept the enemy. During the battle he personally killed sixteen of the enemy and destroyed one enemy machine gun. His daring and aggressive action aided materially in the successful defense of the Command Post and were a source of inspiration to all members of the Command Post. Corporal Ivers’ heroic actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.