GENERAL ORDERS - NUMBER 284  27 July 1953

 

    AWARD OF THE BRONZE STAR MEDAL - By direction of the President, under the provisions of Executive Order 9419, 4 February 1944 (Sec II, WD Bul 3, 1944), and pursuant to authority in AR 600-45, the Bronze Star Medal with Letter "V" device for heroic achievement in connection with military operations against an enemy of the United States is awarded to the following named officer and enlisted men:

Private JOHN M. STARCEVICH, US55175471, Army Medical Service, Medical Company, 65th Infantry Regiment, 3d Infantry Division, United States Army. During the early morning hours of 11 June 1953, in the vicinity of Kumhwa, Korea, Company "B", occupying a portion of the 1st Battalion's front line, was subjected to intense artillery and mortar fire followed by an enemy reinforced company sized attack. In the ensuing fire fight, a large number of casualties were suffered in the fierce hand-to-hand fighting that occurred in friendly trenches. Private STARCEVICH, performing his duties at a forward aid station, received a continous flow of wounded comrades. While under continual enemy artillery and mortar fire, he administered urgently needs first aid and gave comfort to those seriously wounded with his encouraging words. Although located near the close combat area, he continued his courageous actions until all the wounded were evacuated to safety. Private STARCEVICH'S outstanding heroism and devotion to duty reflect great credit upon himself and the military service. Entered the Federal Service from Colorado.

Source: Record Group 338: General Orders 3rd Infantry Division, Boxes 129 to 131 - National Archives and Records Administration, College Park, Maryland.