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 Francis L. Partleton (ASN: 33565283), United States Army, for gallantry in action against the enemy while serving with Headquarters, 7th Armored Infantry Battalion, 8th Armored Division, in Germany on 28 March 1945. Corporal Partleton volunteered to lead a small patrol behind enemy lines with a mission of setting up an observation post. When the patrol was pinned down by artillery fire, he exposed himself fearlessly in order to find a covered route forward. When his platoon was later given the mission of gaining contact with the enemy, Corporal Partleton volunteered to maintain this contact, allowing the remainder of the platoon to withdraw to safety. His courage, initiative and outstanding devotion to duty reflect great credit on himself and the Armed Forces of the United States.