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 E. Donley (ASN: 11007324), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Headquarters Battery, 32d Field Artillery Battalion, 1st Infantry Division in the period from January to April 1943. Although subjected to frequent heavy enemy artillery and mortar fire and the constant threat of enemy patrols, Corporal Donley, on his own initiative, manned an artillery observation post far in advance of leading infantry elements and obtained valuable information for our artillery. His 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.