The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Second Lieutenant (Infantry) Claude R. Jones (ASN: 0-1016457), United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with Company B, 31st Tank Battalion, 7th Armored Division, in action in the area of St. Vith, Belgium, on 21 December 1944. When an enemy attack knocked out his tank, Second Lieutenant Jones provided for the safe evacuation of all his men. Then, although tank fire was still directed against his vehicle, he determinedly started back towards it, intending to put his guns back into the fight against overwhelming German forces. Despite a heavy barrage of artillery and direct small arms fire he made his way to the side of the tank, but was wounded as he attempted to mount it. Second Lieutenant Jones’ 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, the 7th Armored Division, and the United States Army.