The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant (Infantry) John H. Scanlon (ASN: 0-1295437), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 80th Infantry Division in connection with military operations against an enemy of the United States on 22 December 1944 in Luxembourg. With utter disregard for his personal safety, Lieutenant Scanlon led his rifle company through mortar, direct fire weapons, and small arms fire, to successfully seize the objective. Despite wounds he received as a result of this action, he continued in the attack, accounting for the capture of sixty of the enemy. The exceptional leadership, courage, and sincere devotion to duty displayed by Lieutenant Scanlon were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.