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 Donald E. Johnson (ASN: 31327221), United States Army, for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving with the 422d Infantry Regiment, 106th Infantry Division, on 16 December 1944. Knowing that the enemy held the only remaining route to his regimental command post, Private Johnson volunteered to break through the enemy lines in an attempt to deliver an urgent message to his Commanding Officer. In his attempted breakthrough, he was captured, but later, escaped and successfully reached his regimental commander with the message. The heroic actions of Private Johnson reflected great credit upon himself and the military service.