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 Francis J. McNeil (ASN: 363367908), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 43d Infantry Division, in action against the enemy near Antipole, Luzon, Philippine Islands, on 26 April 1945. While Sergeant McNeil, a squad leader, and his company advanced toward a hill, they encountered a force of approximately seventy-five Japanese. In the ensuing action, the platoon leader was killed and several men were wounded. Sergeant McNeil, on his own initiative, and realizing the superior dug-in enemy force, skillfully maneuvered his squad around the flank to set up a covering force in order to remove the wounded. While attempting to rescue a wounded comrade, Sergeant McNeil was intercepted by three Japanese, of whom he quickly disposed. He then proceeded to aid the wounded man when an enemy machine gun opened fire on him and wounded him. In spite of his wound, Sergeant McNeil succeeded in bringing the casualty to comparative safety. Sergeant McNeil’s initiative, skill in handling men and undeniable fearlessness, infused his men with the confidence to follow him and earned him their deep respect and admiration. 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.