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), [then First Lieutenant] Francis J. McMahon (ASN: 0-1308069), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company H, 2d Battalion, 232d Infantry Regiment, 42d Infantry Division, in action on 5 January 1945, near Gambsheim, France. Wounded while deploying his machine guns, Lieutenant McMahon refused evacuation and continued placing his weapon and encouraging his men. Still without medical treatment, Lieutenant McMahon led his company in direct support of one of the rifle companies, constantly checking on his platoons while under direct enemy fire. By his courage and selfless determination, Lieutenant McMahon enabled his company to support the battalion during an extremely critical period.