The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Second Lieutenant (Infantry) Earl J. Connelley, Jr., United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 87th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in Germany during World War II. Near Emmershaven he led a reconnoitering detail two miles into German lines. on the return the men were under fire from a squad of ten Germans. Ordering his men to take cover and get back to the American lines, Lieutenant Connelley advanced alone and killed four of the Germans and wounded three, enabling the detail to return with important information. His gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.