The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain (Infantry) John E. Davis (ASN: 0-327717), United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action on 15 – 16 July 1944, in the vicinity of *** Normandy, France. Captain Davis was in command of Company E, 2d Battalion, 134th Infantry Regiment, 35th Infantry Division, in the attack on Hill Number 122. The company’s assault necessitated the attack against well prepared and strongly defended enemy positions. Displaying conspicuous bravery and outstanding leadership, Captain Davis led his company in the attack in the face of strong enemy small arms and mortar fire. Being unable to penetrate the strong enemy positions, and after his company had suffered approximately fifty per cent casualties, Captain Davis reorganized his unit under heavy enemy fire and led it to a position from which he carried on a holding action while other companies in his battalion enveloped the enemy position. On the following day, again exercising superior leadership and setting a gallant example for his organization by personal bravery, he led it in the successful repulse of three enemy counterattacks against the battalion position. The gallantry in action, outstanding leadership in battle and disregard for personal safety, reflect the highest credit on Captain Davis, and materially contributed to the subsequent success of his battalion in this action. His gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.