(Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant (Infantry) Jeptha Charles Tanksley (ASN: 0-26095), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving as Executive Officer of Company B, 1st Battalion, 363d Infantry Regiment, 91st Infantry Division, in action against the enemy during the battle for Hill 411 near Bologna, Italy, in October 1944. On the evening of a direct assault up the slopes of Hill 411, the first platoon leader became a casualty, and First Lieutenant Tanksley immediately chose to assume command of that platoon. The assault, under direct enemy fire, was successful. On 13 October 1944, Company B had wrested from the Germans a well-fortified position on commanding ground. The enemy almost immediately brought heavy counter-fire on Hill 411, and one mortar round exploded very close to First Lieutenant Tanksley, killing two soldiers and grievously wounded him. First Lieutenant Tanksley’s gallant leadership and actions were critical to the successful completion of his regiment’s mission. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by First Lieutenant Tanksley, 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.