The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Technician Fifth Grade John C. Stella (ASN: 37555265), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Battery C, 899th Field Artillery Battalion, 75th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 7 April 1945, in Germany. In the vicinity of Rittergut-Bladenhorst, Technician Fifth Grade Stella, a member of an artillery forward observation team, aided in establishing radio contact which effected constant communication with the artillery fire direction center. For thirty minutes he remained in the forward observation post assisting the observer in adjusting artillery fire on the enemy who were, at times, within 100 yards of his position. During this time he was exposed to enemy observation, small arms and mortar fire from three sides, and out own artillery bursts. Technician Fifth Grade Stella’s efficiency under fire was highly instrumental in repulsing the counterattack. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Technician Fifth Grade Stella, 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.