The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant (Infantry) John H. Powers (ASN: 0-1046229), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company A, 1st Battalion, 222d Infantry Regiment, 42d Infantry Division, in action on 21 and 22 March 1945, at the Siegfried Line. In the assault on the Siegfried Line, Lieutenant Powers led his platoon, in the face of intense enemy mortar, artillery, and small arms fire, across five creeks, and systematically attacked eight German pillboxes, killing or capturing their defenders. Under his leadership the platoon seized the high ground behind the emplacements, thereby preventing a possible enemy counterattack. During this attack Lieutenant Powers distinguished himself by his aggressive leadership and outstanding tactical ability, inflicting heavy casualties upon the enemy without loss to his platoon.