The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in Lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star to Captain (Infantry) Clifton A. Croom (ASN: 0-325654), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 45th Infantry Regiment, Philippine Scouts, in action against the enemy at Bataan, Philippine Islands, on 24 January 1942. While executing an ordered withdrawal, the 45th Infantry Combat Team (Philippine Scouts) was subjected to a heavy enemy attack. Captain Croom, fighting a delaying action with his company, heard a platoon sergeant, who had been seriously wounded, calling for help in front of the lines. With utter disregard for his own safety, Captain Croom crawled forward and dragged the wounded sergeant back within our own lines. This gallant and timely action saved the sergeant from capture or death. Captain Croom’s gallant actions and selfless devotion to duty, without regard for his own safety, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.

(Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain (Infantry) Clifton A. Croom (ASN: 0-325654), United States Army, for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving with the 45th Infantry Regiment, Philippine Scouts, in the Philippine islands during World War II. Captain Croom’s gallant actions and selfless devotion to duty, without regard for his own safety, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.