The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Lieutenant Colonel (Field Artillery) John Barkley (ASN: 0-253806), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with a Field Artillery Battalion of the 1st Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in Sicily during July and August 1943. When two batteries of his battalion had been overrun by enemy tanks, Colonel Barkley proceeded to these batteries under heavy enemy shellfire to determine the condition of the abandoned guns and equipment and possible means of evacuating them. This reconnaissance enabled the recovery of vital material and its subsequent use against the enemy. Lieutenant Colonel Barkley’s 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 and the United States Army.