The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Technician Fourth Grade John W. McCarthy, Jr. (ASN: 12015655), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Headquarters & Service Company, 1st Engineer Combat Battalion, 1st Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in North Africa, on or about 21 March 1943. Sergeant McCarthy, often under heavy enemy fire and constant enemy observation, participated in several security patrols into enemy territory. His willingness to perform these dangerous missions and his resourcefulness and intelligent leadership under fire gave confidence to his men and insured the success of his patrols. 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.