The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Technical Sergeant John A. Boyd (ASN: 6938818), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 119th Infantry Regiment, 30th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 9 July 1944, in France. Technical Sergeant Boyd was serving as a Platoon Sergeant with an Infantry Company engaged in an attack against enemy positions. When his Commanding Officer became a casualty, Technical Sergeant Boys assumed command without hesitation and although his platoon was the lead platoon in the advanced, he moved to the most forward position, calling for his comrades to follow him. At one time during the Action, Technical Sergeant Boyd crawled alone within 30 yards of an enemy position where he waited for the hostile gunners to expose themselves and destroyed them with his accurate fire as they did so. By his bravery and outstanding leadership, he exhorted and encouraged his platoon continuously, successfully completing his mission. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Technical Sergeant Boyd, 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.