The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Staff Sergeant Robert L. MacDonald (ASN: 36505014), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 315th Infantry Regiment, 79th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 9 July 1944 in France. Sergeant MacDonald voluntarily proceeded through sniper-infested territory, in the face of machine gun and small arms fire, to personally assault an enemy machine gun emplacement with hand grenades. His gallant action resulted in the neutralization of the enemy weapon which had been inflicting numerous casualties and impeding the progress of our troops. For his dauntless courage and his utter disregard for his own safety, Sergeant MacDonald reflects highest credit on himself and the Armed Forces of the United States.