The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Second Lieutenant (Corps of Engineers) John S. Parker (ASN: 0-887698), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 35th Infantry Division, in action at ****, France, on 7 December 1944. As plans were being made for the assault crossing of the **** River by the *** Infantry Regiment, Lieutenant Parker was given the mission of reconnoitering the railroad bridge in the belief that this bridge could be used. At the time, there remained scattered pockets of enemy resistance on the west side of the river, with prepared enemy positions on the east side of the bridge. Lieutenant Parker was given a squad of infantrymen to cover his reconnaissance. When he arrived upon the bridge, under unhampered enemy observation, he discovered the bridge had been blown. At this point, the enemy fired upon him from as close as fifty yards. Forced to leap from the bridge into a pile of debris, Lieutenant parker sustained painful injuries, but refused evacuation. The information he brought back, which included his discovery of demolition charges prepared by the enemy, and which were later removed, enabled three battalions to make use of the bridge. Lieutenant Parker’s tenacity of purpose, devotion to duty and gallant determination for the successful accomplishment of the mission reflect high credit upon his character as an officer.