The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Major (Cavalry) John Paul Gerald (ASN: 0-23009), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving as Commanding Officer of the 85th Cavalry Reconnaissance Squadron, 5th Armored Division, in Germany on 17 October 1944. When the squadron which he commanded was ordered to destroy a heavily defended road block. Major Gerald, with complete disregard for his personal safety, led the attacking party. Major Gerald was fatally wounded by enemy rifle fire. The action of Major Gerald in leading a force on a dangerous mission, when he could have delegated the mission to a subordinate commander without reflecting discredit upon himself, is worthy of the highest traditions of the military service.