The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star to Lieutenant Colonel (Infantry) Allen F. Bacon (ASN: 0-299784), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving as Commanding Officer of the 1st Battalion, 30th Infantry Regiment, 3d Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in Italy. Assuming command of the 1st Battalion on 28 May 1944, during the drive from Cisterna di Littoria, to Rome, Italy, Lieutenant Colonel Bacon personally organized and personally it successfully in taking all assigned objectives. During the attack on Valmontone, Italy, Lieutenant Colonel Bacon personally reorganized one of his assault companies when all of its officers were killed or wounded and by skillful employment of his reserve company pressed his attack until his objective was taken. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Lieutenant Colonel Bacon, 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.