The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class Jesse G. Alexander, Jr. (ASN: 11013205), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 1st Cavalry Reconnaissance Troop (Mechanized), 1st Infantry Division in the period from January to April 1943. In an attempt to rescue six men of his troop caught in an enemy trap, Private Alexander calmly faced heavy enemy machine gun and mortar fire in a futile search of the area. Private Alexander escaped from this area and enemy encirclement under cover of darkness. 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.