The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to First Lieutenant (Infantry) John Melvin Madison (ASN: 0-331261), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 370th Infantry Regiment, 92d Infantry Division, in action on 8 and 10 February 1945, in Italy. The company of which First Lieutenant Madison was a member had taken its objective against light enemy resistance. Immediately thereafter, the enemy subjected the position to terrific artillery and mortar fire which killed or wounded all officer except First Lieutenant Madison. Extremely heavy casualties and the loss of leadership disorganized the company and it sought to withdraw. First Lieutenant Madison quickly gathered the remaining fifteen men and, regardless of continuing enemy fire, put them into positions to hold the hill. By sheer personal courage and disregard for his own life, First Lieutenant Madison inspired his men to repel three separate enemy counterattacks aimed exclusively at their position. He withdrew only upon orders. Two days later, he captured seven enemy soldiers while leading his company in an attack routed through an extensive unmarked minefield. First Lieutenant Madison’s outstanding bravery in a situation of extreme combat hazard exemplifies the gallant heroism of the American Soldier.