The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class George F. Swearingen (ASN: 14062737), United States Army, for gallantry in action. On 21 December 1944, while on traffic patrol duty, Private Swearingen found two military policeman at a vital traffic control post unable to perform their duties due to wounds and shock as a result of heavy enemy artillery fire. Voluntarily, Private Swearingen then remained at that post with another man until replacements could be secured. Shortly thereafter, the other able Military Policeman was seriously wounded by a burst of enemy artillery. Realizing the importance of the road junction, Private Swearingen with complete disregard for personal safety immediately assumed complete control and carried out the exacting duties in the face of extreme hazards of further shelling. Although twice painfully wounded by enemy artillery fire, this enlisted man remained at his post until relieved by direct order of a commissioned officer. This unswerving devotion to duty prevented a serious traffic entanglement which would have caused considerable casualties and loss of vital equipment and transportation. The gallantry, unswerving devotion to duty and disregard for personal safety displayed by this enlisted man exemplify the highest traditions of the United States Army.