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 (Chaplain’s Corps) Stephen J. Meany (ASN: 0-405935), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving as a Chaplain with the 69th Infantry Regiment, 27th Infantry Division, in action at Makin Atoll, Gilbert Islands, on 20 November 1943. When soldier fell wounded in clearing raked by hostile machine gun and rifle fire, and lay helpless on open ground only twenty yards from the enemy position, Chaplain Meany, without hesitancy and with complete disregard for his own safety, went to his aid. In the act of administering first aid to the wounded man he was severely wounded four times by enemy machine gun fire. The heroic example of this officer was an inspiration to all ranks. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Chaplain Meany, 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.