The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to First Lieutenant (Infantry) John M. Krol (ASN: 0-1309025), United States Army, for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving with the 422d Infantry Regiment, 106th Infantry Division, on 16 December 1944, in Germany. When his regiment was overrun by a strong enemy force, Lieutenant Krol went to his division command post with information concerning the situation and to receive further orders for his regiment. On his return trip, he discovered that his regiment had been virtually surrounded. Knowing the importance of delivering his message, Lieutenant Krol braved the enemy fire and was fatally wounded in his attempt to pass through the enemy-held territory.