The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Technician Fifth Grade Lyle Francis (ASN: 36070531), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving as a Medical Aidman with Company B, 53d Armored Infantry Battalion, 4th Armored Division, in action against an enemy of the United States on 30 July 1944, near Avranches, France. During the night and under excellent cover of darkness an enemy column of undetermined strength had proceeded up the main road toward Avranches and through the positions we were occupying. Heavy casualties were inflicted on the enemy causing them to retreat. Our casualties were very heavy. All during the action, Technician Fifth Grade Francis, Medical Aidman attached to the First Platoon, Company B, served both the first and third platoons, rendering such medical aid and evacuation that was necessary. During the entire action he exposed himself to enemy fire and at no time did he show any regard for his personal safety or the hazards of crossing the main road where most of the action had been taking place. During the course of this action and while stopping to give aid to enemy wounded, he was taken prisoner. In the subsequent action that followed, he was re-captured by elements of his own unit. Despite his experience, Technician Fifth Grade Francis, upon being freed, sought re-supply of equipment and continued with his mission of rendering aid to the wounded and assisting in the immediate evacuation. Technician Fifth Grade Francis’ courage and devotion to duty reflect great credit upon himself and the Armed Forces of the United States.