The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Staff Sergeant Donald L. Giles (ASN: 37035106), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 35th Infantry Division, in action in the vicinity of ****, Normandy, France, 11 July 1944. At the outset of an attack against the enemy on the morning of 11 July, Sergeant Giles was struck in the shoulder by a sniper bullet. Despite his wound, he remained at the head of his men, personally destroyed an enemy machine gun nest with automatic rifle fire, and continued to lead his squad for ten hours before allowing himself to be evacuated for first aid. The qualities of leadership, unusual devotion to duty, and tenacity of purpose displayed by Sergeant Giles served as an inspiration to his men, and reflect high credit upon his character as a soldier.