The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant (Infantry) John M. Maloney (ASN: 0-514267), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 117th Infantry Regiment, 30th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 2 October 1944, in Germany. During the assault upon the Siegfried Line, the leading element of First Lieutenant Maloney’s company was held up by an enemy strongpoint of well dug-in weapons and riflemen. Despite the intense hostile fire, First Lieutenant Maloney voluntarily moved forward alone to reconnoiter the enemy positions. He then returned and placed his mortar platoon in firing positions. First Lieutenant Maloney courageously went forward a second time to a point of vantage he had chosen on his previous trip, from which he directed such devastating mortar fire on the enemy positions that they were quickly neutralized. This display of bravery and tactical skill by First Lieutenant Maloney reflect great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Armed Forces.