The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Technical Sergeant Owen Leo Jeffs, United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company L, 3d Battalion, 7th Infantry Regiment, 3d Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in Italy, on 29 February 1944. When his unit was stopped by a deadly crossfire from a well emplaced enemy gun position, Sergeant Jeffs brought up a mortar and calmly adjusted the sights. His first round fell short, but his second landed directly on the enemy machine gun position, inflicting three casualties and allowing his unit to continue its advance. His gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.