(Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain (Chaplain’s Corps) John J. McDonnell (ASN: 0-23619), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving as a chaplain with the 45th Infantry Regiment (Philippine Scouts), in the Philippine Islands, in 1942. Chaplain McDonnell led four men into direct fire of the enemy, in order to recover fifteen American wounded and thirteen dead. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by, Chaplain McDonnell without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.