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 E. Masterson (ASN: 33148586), United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with Headquarters Company, 38th Armored Infantry Battalion, 7th Armored Division, in action in the vicinity of Crombach, Belgium, on 22 December 1944. Private First Class Masterson’s 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, the 7th Armored Division, and the United States Army.