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 Private First Class Charles J. Swan (ASN: 366665814), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the 80th Infantry Division in connection with military operations against an enemy of the United States on 24 November 1944 in France. On that date, Private First Class Swan, serving as a rifleman in a platoon which was temporarily delayed by intense crossfire from concealed enemy machine gun positions, advanced with a small maneuvering element to the flank in an attempt to neutralize the enemy fire. Unable to get closer than one hundred yards to the guns, Private First Class Swan, with total disregard for his own personal safety in his zeal to accomplish his mission, rushed the nearest machine gun position and threw a hand grenade which effectively destroyed the gun and killed the crew. Observing another gun to the right, he knelt and was in the act of discharging a rifle grenade at the gun when he was mortally wounded by enemy fire. His heroic actions so inspired the remainder of the platoon that they were enabled to move forward and overrun the enemy. The bravery, determination, and loyal devotion to duty displayed by Private First Class Swan were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.