The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class Omer W. Franklin (ASN: 34372473), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 120th Infantry Regiment, 30th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 11 July 1944, in France. Private First Class Franklin distinguished himself when his company position was attacked at night by a strong enemy force composed of tanks, armored cars, and infantry troops. With the aid of a comrade, Private First Class Franklin advanced with a rocket launcher through the heavy fire to a point within the range of an enemy tank. The first round fired set the tank afire, but the back flash burned him. As he was being helped to the rear by his comrades, they encountered an enemy soldier. Private First Class Franklin, still carrying the rocket launcher, used it as a club to fell the German. Private First Class Franklin’s courageous acts were instrumental in completely thwarting the enemy attack. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Private First Class Franklin, 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.