The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Technical Sergeant Matthew R. Wright (ASN: 35024214), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 120th Infantry Regiment, 30th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 24 and 25 July 1944, in France. During a bombing by friendly planes preparatory to an assault on enemy positions some of the bombs fell short into friendly lines. Although forty percent of his machine gun platoon were casualties, his platoon leader killed, and two of the unit’s four machine guns destroyed by bombs, Technical Sergeant Wright unhesitatingly took over command of the remaining men and guns and reorganized them into a fighting unit. The next day the platoon was again bombed and suffered more casualties. Enemy small arms, mortar, and artillery fire made the reorganization of his troops an especially hazardous one. Giving no thought to his personal safety, Technical Sergeant Wright calmly moved about his depleted platoon, again reorganized them and reported his platoon ready for orders. Although suffering from heavy casualties and despite fierce enemy action, Technical Sergeant Wright unhesitatingly led his men in the attack, displaying outstanding bravery and leadership and successfully completed his assigned mission. The gallantry, coolness under fire, and outstanding qualities of leadership displayed by Technical Sergeant Wright on this occasion, despite only two days of previous combat experience, are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Armed Forces.