John P. Foster

The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star Medal to John P. Foster (1151912), Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with a Marine Infantry Company of the FIRST Marine Division (Rein.), FMF, in Korea, on 12 – 13 August 1952. Serving as a Company Clerk, Corporal Foster displayed outstanding courage, initiative and devotion to duty. While attacking an outpost position far forward of the main line of resistance, a friendly unit was pinned down and isolated by devastating enemy mortar and artillery fire. He volunteered to organize teams of indigenous personnel and convey vitally needed supplies to the stricken unit. Expressing complete disregard for his personal safety, he dauntlessly advanced through the intense hostile fire to deliver the sorely needed supplies. Throughout the night, he continued to make trips on the average of one every twenty minutes in order to make it possible for the friendly force he was supplying to conduct operations for at least twenty-four hours. On return trips he carried casualties to a point from which they could be safely evacuated. After several of these trips, he was seriously and painfully wounded and rendered temporarily deaf and blind. Upon recovery, he refused evacuation and resumed his mission of supplying the isolated friendly company. His initiative and determination in delivering supplies undoubtedly saved the stricken unit and was instrumental in repulsing the attacking hostile forces. Corporal Foster’s gallant and courageous actions together with his indomitable spirit served as an inspiration to all who observed him and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.