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 David C. Nichols (ASN: 20456581), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 117th Infantry Regiment, 30th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 30 July 1944, in France. Staff Sergeant Nichols was assigned to duty with an infantry assault force advancing against the enemy. One of the forward scouts was hit by enemy fire and lay helpless on open ground in full view of the enemy. With complete disregard for his personal safety, Staff Sergeant Nichols left his place of cover behind a house, advanced through heavy enemy fire and carried the wounded man back to safety. Although wounded in both legs while evacuating the wounded man, Staff Sergeant Nichols did not drop his burden until he reached friendly soil. The gallant act undoubtedly saved the life of his comrade. The personal bravery and unselfish loyalty to his comrades exhibited by Staff Sergeant Nichols reflect great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Armed Forces.