The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant Colonel (Infantry) John W. Hesse (ASN: 0-395369), United States Army, for gallantry in action while Commanding the 2d Battalion, 339th Infantry Regiment, 85th Infantry Division, in action during the period 22 April to 2 May 1945, in Italy. During the recent breakthrough and rapid pursuit of enemy forces in Northern Italy, Lieutenant Colonel Hesse, a battalion commander, by his superb leadership in consistently remaining with the leading elements to see that the offensive never lost momentum, inspired his battalion to drive forward as it spearheaded the advance of the regiment. On one occasion, when a blown bridge threatened to halt the advance, Lieutenant Colonel Hesse made a personal reconnaissance over unknown roads into enemy held territory to find a suitable by-pass. In one day, due to his personal direction, his battalion traveled ninety miles in seventeen hours despite freezing weather and treacherous mined roads. The inspiring leadership and aggressiveness displayed by Lieutenant Colonel Hesse reflects the highest traditions of the military service.