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 [then Private] Marcus L. Ballew (ASN: 34128449), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with the Medical Detachment, 317th Infantry Regiment, 80th Infantry Division, in connection with military operations against an enemy of the United States on 17 September 1944 in France. Although seriously wounded during an enemy artillery barrage near St. Genevieve, France, Private First Class Ballew braved hostile machine gun fire to render first aid to and evacuate his wounded platoon leader to safety, and then returned several times to assist other casualties. The bravery and self-sacrifice displayed by Private First Class Bailey were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.