The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant (Armor) John L. Curran (ASN: 0-1321999), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Company B, 44th Armored Infantry Battalion, 6th Armored Division, in action in the vicinity of Bastogne, Belgium, on 4 January 1945. When his company was forced to give ground before an enemy onslaught, he remained at his command post to cover his troops withdrawal until enemy troops overran his position and he was taken prisoner by the enemy. His courage and gallant actions are in keeping with the finest traditions of the military service.