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 (Field Artillery) John D. Gutshall (ASN: 0-1174877), United States Army, for gallantry in action on 1 to 2 October 1944, near ****, Holland. Second Lieutenant Gutshall, Battery A, 319th Glider Field Artillery Battalion, 82d Airborne Division, was acting as a battalion forward observer, and was working with the Second Battalion, 508th Parachute Infantry Regiment. He conducted himself in such exemplary manner that he was able to observe effective supporting artillery fire which assisted in breaking a German attack against the Second Battalion sector of the Regimental MLR. On the night of 1 October the Germans placed heavy artillery fire upon the position occupied by the Second Battalion in the Regimental MLT near ****. A fierce attack followed and the enemy penetrated the forward positions of the Second Battalion. Second Lieutenant Gutshall moved to a position from which he could better observe the artillery fire of his batteries and remained in this fire-swept position, placing supporting artillery fire with such accuracy that two armored personnel carriers with all occupants were destroyed, and the enemy attack became disorganized. While at his Observation Post, Second Lieutenant Gutshall was wounded in the head by shrapnel, but remained at his post until forced to return to his battalion when all communication with his Observation Post was destroyed by enemy artillery. He replaced this equipment and received first aid for his wound, returning immediately to the Second Battalion, where he continued to observe supporting fire. The determined actions of Second Lieutenant Gutshall contributed much to the destruction of the enemy attack, and assisted in the defense of the Regimental MLR. 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.