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) Mahlon G. Wright (ASN: 0-447409), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 317th Infantry Regiment, 80th Infantry Division, in connection with military operations against an enemy of the United States on 28 March 1945 in Germany. While participating in the assault crossing of the Rhine River, Lieutenant Wright was seriously wounded when his boat was destroyed. Disregarding personal safety, he swam to an island, rejecting enemy demands for surrender, and, under severe fire, repaired a radio and called for aid for wounded comrades. Lieutenant Wright’s courage, aggressiveness and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.