The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Corporal John R. McGowan (ASN: 32590640), United States Army, for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving with an Armored unit in Germany on 14 September 1944. When two tanks were knocked out by enemy fire, three wounded men were left lying in full view of the enemy, unable to move to safety. Corporal McGowan, without regard for his own safety, left the protection of his tank. He moved across the open field, under intense small arms and artillery fire, and moved the wounded to the rear of his tank and out of danger. By this action he saved the lives of his comrades. His devotion to duty and disregard for personal safety reflect great credit on himself and is in keeping with the highest traditions of the Armed Forces of the United States.