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 W. Davis (ASN: 0-1304591), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 120th Infantry Regiment, 30th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 22 November 1944, in Germany. Although enemy artillery fire was so severe that it had inflicted numerous casualties, including the platoon leader of an assault platoon, First Lieutenant Davis gallantly moved about in the dangerous area to reorganize the platoon and led it aggressively to the objective. He refused to allow the attack to falter under murderous rifle and machine gun fire but moved about his men exhorting them to continue forward. By his outstanding courage, First Lieutenant Davis aided in the successful advance to the objective and the capture of thirty prisoners. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by First Lieutenant Davis, 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.