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 Private First Class John Molesky (ASN: 33150524), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving as a machine gunner with Company D, 1st Battalion, 175th Infantry Regiment, 29th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy at Normandy, France, during a severely contested engagement with enemy forces on 19 June 1945. By his unflinching courage and determination Private First Class Molesky remained at his machine gun and delivered fire on the closely approaching enemy in order to provide covering fire for the withdrawal of two rifle platoons. Shortly thereafter, while protecting the exposed flank for troops who had moved back to reorganize, Private First Class Molesky was seriously injured, yet he continued firing his machine gun until reorganization was completed The valor and unselfish devotion to duty displayed by Private First Class Molesky, 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.