The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star (Posthumously) to Private John Patrick Colligan (ASN: 33266334), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company D, 1st Battalion, 16th Infantry Regiment, 1st Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in the vicinity of Troina, Sicily, on 5 August 1943. When besieging enemy forces delayed his company’s advance, Private Colligan fearlessly proceeded to an exposed area, emplaced his machine gun in an advantageous position, and directed most effective fire on enemy strongholds until mortally wounded. His unselfish efforts and heroic devotion to duty, at the cost of his life, enabled his comrades to attain their objective. 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.

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 John Patrick Colligan (ASN: 33266334), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company D, 1st Battalion, 16th Infantry Regiment, 1st Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in North Africa and Sicily, during the period from February through July. While consolidating a captured enemy position, Private Colligan crawled through heavy enemy machine gun fire and, skillfully firing his weapon, did great damage to the crew of an enemy artillery piece shelling his position. 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.