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 John Giesler (ASN: 39608031), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company K, 133d Infantry Regiment, 34th Infantry Division, in action on 4 November 1944, in Italy. Private First Class Giesler was the German speaking member of a patrol that went deep into enemy territory to investigate a report that a certain enemy outpost was willing to surrender. After approaching to within thirty-five yards of the enemy position, Private First Class Giesler called upon the enemy to surrender, whereupon seven German soldiers came down the road towards him. When they came within ten yards of Private First Class Giesler’s position, the Germans opened fire with machine pistols, wounding him in the foot. Despite the painful wound, Private First Class Giesler immediately leaped into the center of the road and returned the enemy fire with his automatic rifle, killing two and wounding the remaining five. Private First Class Giesler then courageously held his position until the patrol was ordered to withdraw. Private First Class Giesler then moved back by himself and was evacuated. The courage and cool thinking displayed by Private First Class Giesler probably saved the lives of his comrades and reflects great credit upon himself and the Armed Forces of the United States.