The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Second Lieutenant (Armor) John M. Townsend (ASN: 0-1015121), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 70th Tank Battalion, 1st Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in Sicily, in July and August 1943. When his advancing tank platoon suddenly came under heavy enemy anti-tank, artillery, mortar, and sniper fire, Lieutenant Townsend dismounted his vehicle and directed his tanks into a defiladed position from which he was able to cover the advance of another platoon a supporting infantry, thereby enabling them to reach and overrun their objective. His 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 and the United States Army.