The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Sergeant [then Private First Class] Jack A. Magnuson (ASN: 36416586), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Headquarters Company, 317th Infantry Regiment, 80th Infantry Division, in connection with military operations against an enemy of the United States on 20 March 1945 in Germany. While temporarily held up by stiff enemy resistance near Kusel, Germany, Sergeant Magnuson noticed a bridge which was in danger of being blown up as a delaying measure. Without hesitation Sergeant Magnuson ran 100 yards to the bridge under fire, cut the wire leading to the demolition charge, and thus enabled his platoon to pass over the bridge without delay. Sergeant Magnuson’s courage and initiative were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.