The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class George E. McDonald, United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 117th Infantry Regiment, 30th Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in Germany, in 1944 and 1945. Private First Class McDonald volunteered for an extremely dangerous patrol to go into the enemy lines to direct artillery fire on whatever positions they could find. The patrol spent a full day in the enemy-held territory, directing fire on numerous targets and damaging equipment. Their great heroism in risking their lives, or capture, was responsible in gathering important information and in disorganizing the enemy. The gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty demonstrated by Private First Class McDonald, 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.