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 (Field Artillery), [then First Lieutenant] Charles A. Frances, United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 2d Battalion, 88th Field Artillery, Philippine Scouts, in the Philippine Islands from 28 January to 13 February 1942. As a forward observer at the battalion observation post on Quinanuan Point, Bataan, Captain Frances maintained highly effective observation under continuous enemy sniper fire and patrol action, as well as heavy rifle and machine gun fire. Despite the extremely hazardous circumstances and dense jungle growth, he adjusted artillery fire and aided materially in the success of the battalion in furnishing necessary artillery fire support. Through his marked gallantry and devotion to duty, Captain Frances made a distinct contribution to the heroic defense of Bataan.