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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 W. Reynolds (ASN: 0-363205), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 117th Infantry Regiment, 30th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy on 28 August 1944, in France. First Lieutenant Reynolds was assigned to duty as a staff officer with an infantry organization. During a fierce engagement, when a lower unit was in a state of disorganization as a result of heavy casualties including all but one of the officers, First Lieutenant Reynolds assumed command, rallied the remnants of the organization into an organized fighting team and launched an attack against the enemy, personally leading the assault to a successful conclusion. At all times during the action he was subject to tank, mortar, and small arms fire. The leadership and aggressive initiative exhibited by these heroic actions are outstanding and reflect great credit upon himself and uphold the highest traditions of the Military Service of the United States.

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Captain (Infantry)

    Regiment:

    117th Infantry Regiment

    Division:

    30th Infantry Division

    Action Date:

    November 16, 1944
    “Work Horse of the Western Front – The Story of the 30th Infantry Division” By Robert L. Hewitt

    The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star to Captain (Infantry) John W. Reynolds (ASN: 0-363205), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 117th Infantry Regiment, 30th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in Germany, on 16 November 1944. Captain Reynolds was commanding an infantry company during an attack against the enemy. His company attacked through an extensive enemy anti-personnel mine field and casualties were suffered from the mines and from heavy enemy fire which was falling in the area. Realizing that the route of advance was impracticable, Captain Reynolds, at great risk to his life, entered the mine field and personally supervised the withdrawal of his men. By his courage and initiative he saved his company from suffering heavier casualties and after reorganizing them, led them in attack through another avenue of approach and succeeded in capturing his objective. The bravery, aggressive determination, and exemplary leadership exhibited by Captain Reynolds reflect great credit upon himself and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Armed Forces.