The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private Floyd C. St. John (ASN: 38676657), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Headquarters Battery, 861st Field Artillery Battalion, 63d Infantry Division, in action on 18 February 1945, in the vicinity of Auersmacher, Germany. An attempt had been made on two occasions to run wire to the liaison officer of the supported infantry battalion. On both occasions, the wire crews were forced to turn back because of heavy concentrations of enemy small arms and mortar fire. Private St. John volunteered to lay this wire and went forward with a wire reel mounted on a pack board to lay this line to the liaison officer who was circled by enemy fire. Although under heavy mortar and small arms fire for a distance of 500 yards, Private St. John, with complete disregard for his own safety, continued forward until his mission had been accomplished. His outstanding gallantry and determination to complete the mission reflect great credit upon himself and the Armed Forces of the United States.